REPORT: 2021 NHL Draft set for July

The National Hockey League will hold the 2021 NHL Draft on July 23-24 as expected, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.

Many leagues either had their season delayed or cancelled as COVID-19 restrictions have prevented certain activities, limiting player development and scouting opportunities for NHL clubs.

https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1371857505647755271?s=20
The Western Hockey League has had a partial start with the Central and East Divisions underway, but the BC and US Divisions beginning later this month. The Alberta Junior Hockey League has returned to action as well. The Ontario Hockey League has yet to set a return date, as has the Ontario Junior Hockey League.

The Manitoba Junior Hockey League will not return to action in 2020-21, and the British Columbia Hockey League approved a shortened 2020-21 season after the Provincial Health Office (PHO) accepted the league’s proposal for a safe return to play under its COVID-19 Safety Plan on March 12.

Some European leagues have paused or cancelled play as well.

The NHL was reportedly considering several options, including a December option and a summer 2022 date.