As of now, there are less than 80 players who are signed to AHL contracts for 2020-21. There are AHL teams who actually have no AHL contracts set for next year yet. That is alarming.
Today, Panthers star prospect, Henrik Borgström looks to be heading to Jokerit to play in the KHL next year. He would certainly be heading to the AHL if there was a certainty that the league would be playing.... This is very concerning for the AHL as a whole and the NHL should be equally worried.
The AHL is vital to the NHL in every way. Way more important than the NHL has ever publicly admitted. And while the NHL really has to focus on itself and trying to keep things alive next year, they also should really be prepared to throw the AHL a lifeline. Otherwise, I don't see any way there will be an AHL next year, and if there is no AHL for a season it is suspected that MANY of the AHL franchise will NEVER be able to start again.
If the players in the AHL have no league it will certainly mean a huge talent influx into the KHL and other European leagues for more established AHLers, and also could mean Canadian Juniors and College Hockey see many more players electing to not turn pro yet. Of course, all the leagues are at risk of not playing for a year, but the AHL has the most likelihood of disaster...
What can the NHL do to save its lifeline?
Give me your thoughts on the comments...