The Western Hockey League has announced the 2020-21 season will wrap up following the 24-game regular-season schedule.

The announcement was made on Tuesday in a press release explaining the decision.

League officials noted the ongoing challenges with COVID-19, and that current public health restrictions would make it too difficult to conduct the 2021 WHL Playoffs safely.

WHL Commissioner Ron Robison said in a written statement:

“When we returned to play in February, we set out with the intention of completing a 24-game Regular Season schedule, knowing adjustments would be needed along the way,” 

“We remained hopeful that public health conditions would improve, but unfortunately that is not the reality we see in front of us today. The ongoing challenges with non-essential interprovincial and international cross-border travel leave us no alternative but to cancel the 2021 WHL Playoffs."

“We commend our players, team staff, and officials for their commitment to following the protocols that have made this unprecedented season a success. The WHL looks forward to recognizing individual award winners and all four WHL Division champions at the conclusion of the 2020-21 WHL Regular Season, including the presentation of the RE/MAX Cup for the B.C. Division champions and the Subway Cup for the East Division champions.”

The WHL will continue to work with Government and Health Authorities regarding schedule options for the 2021-22 WHL Regular Season.

The Moose Jaw Warriors will play 4 more games to round out their schedule in the East Division Hub in Regina. The local club returns to the ice on Wednesday when they battle it out against the Winnipeg Ice at 8 pm.