The NHL and the NHL Players' Association have reached a tentative agreement on a return-to-play plan to restart the 2019-20 season and a memorandum of understanding that adds another four years to the term of the current collective bargaining agreement.

The next step in the process is the voting. The NHL Board of governors must approve the agreements. Once the NHLPA's executive committee (one player rep from each of the 31 teams) gives the package its approval, the agreement moves forward to a full-membership vote.

The return-to-play plan includes rules and requirements for Phases 3 and 4 of the season restart after the NHL paused on March 12 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Phase 3 is the opening of training camps and Phase 4 is the restart of the season in those hub cities with a 24-team postseason tournament.

Meanwhile, while the league prepares for the restart, testing continues for the coronavirus. Of the 396 NHL players who have reported to their teams for optional training since June 8, 23 have tested positive for the coronavirus, the league announced in a statement on Monday.

The league says it is aware of 12 additional positive cases among NHL players in that span. The NHL says it has administered more than 2,900 COVID-19 tests since June 8, including more than 1,400 this past week.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Seven Unique Sports Items that I have in my Basement

 

More From KSOO-AM / ESPN Sioux Falls