The women of the NWHL are making a comeback for the league’s sixth season in Lake Placid, NY. The season will consist of a 20 game regular season; kicking off on January 23rd at the historic Herb Brooks Arena. Consequently, making this the first time the site has been the host of a professional woman championship.
Interim commissioner Tyler Tumminia, who took over the role in mid-October commented on the historical element of the bubble’s location. And the decision to move forward with a bubble format stating:
“The pandemic resulted in a mandate for our league, players, and partners to collaborate on creating a controlled environment protecting the health of everyone involved. At a time of hyper-growth for girls’ and women’s hockey, we see this season as a celebration of the sport. This will be a historic moment as the hallowed arena that was the site of the “Miracle on Ice” in 1980 hosts its first women’s professional championship. It is a proud moment for the NWHL, the players, and all hockey fans.”
Tumminia also praised both the NWSL and WNBA for the successful execution of their respective seasons over the summer. In addition to their ability to create safe places; as well as engaging experiences for fans heavily influencing the decision to move forward with a bubble.
The Layout
The teams will arrive separately in Lake Placid in a staggered schedule on Jan. 21 and 22. Beginning Jan. 23, they will each play a single game against the other five teams. This will be followed by a playoff round that will determine the four teams advancing to the Isobel Cup Semifinals. The single-game Semifinals will feature the top-seeded team against the fourth-place team, with the second and third facing each other. Then the winners will advance to the Isobel Cup Final set for Friday, Feb. 5.
As of right now, all five previously existing NWHL teams are participating. ( Boston Pride, Buffalo Beauts, Connecticut Whale, Metropolitan Riveters, and the Minnesota Whitecaps). In addition, fans will see the debut of the first-year expansion club, the Toronto Six. Despite the shorter season, all players who are currently contracted will receive their full pay. Unlike the WNBA, this includes all players who chose to take the opt-out option. However, even with this option, more than 95 percent of the players have committed to reporting to their respective teams.
The season is expected to be streamed exclusively via Twitch. In accordance with the landmark three-year broadcasting deal signed shortly before the 2019 season; with the complete schedule set to be released in early January.
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