The American Hockey League may opt for an all-Canadian division as well.
In proposals tabled earlier this month to start the 2020-21 campaign by the AHL’s head office, one scenario being studied would see the Belleville Senators, Toronto Marlies, Laval Rocket and Manitoba Moose in one division because of the restrictions around border travel in the United States.
The Vancouver Canucks (Utica), Calgary Flames (Stockton) and Edmonton Oilers (Bakersfield) have the option of moving their AHL affiliates to their home cities while the threat of COVID-19 exists but they have opted not to do so because of the expense involved.
That could change but that’s the case at the moment and this is just a proposal.
No decisions have been made but the AHL is scheduled to open its season Oct. 5.
The Senators continued to add to their minor-league roster Friday by signing rugged forward Michael Haley to a one-year deal worth $200,000 in the American Hockey League and $700,000 if he’s called up to the NHL when the 2020-21 season gets under way.
While Haley has suited up for 270 games in his NHL career with the Islanders, San Jose, Florida and the Rangers, he’s being brought in to provide leadership for the young players in Belleville.
Haley, 34, who was born in Guelph, has 687 penalty minutes during his time in the NHL.
“Michael will bring experience, leadership and additional physicality to our organization,” said Senators general manager Pierre Dorion. “He’s looking forward to serving as a mentor for our young players.”
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