The NHL bubble is the place to be. Due to travel concerns created by COVID-19, the NHL decided its return to play plan would take place in two different hub cities, one for each conference. The East played in Toronto, while the West is playing in Edmonton. The Conference Finals and Stanley Cup Final are taking place in Edmonton. So far, there have been zero positive tests in both bubbles.

Also, due to concerns of spread among fans and other team personnel, no fans have attended these games. It has been an unprecedented time, but the NHL has done a good job. Here are our thoughts so far:

Matt:

Obviously, the lack of fans can be felt in various forms. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are arguably the best postseason in any league, and the atmospheres during the games back the claim up. Not having any fans will take away a true home ice advantage for the home team of record.

However, the broadcast teams have attempted to use fake noise in order to provide some kind of excitement and electricity in the NHL bubble. Obviously, it is still a work in progress, but the idea has the potential to work out pretty well. The in-arena setup itself is very nice as well with the screens and lighting in the background.

It’s not the same as having fans behind you, but it fills the empty stands very well, as do the tarps near the ice also fill the emptiness as well. The action has been enjoyable for the most part as well, and the games have been fun to watch. As a result, the actions taken to add an atmosphere will never compare to the sold out arenas of the past, but they are good short term alternatives and have been enjoyable for the most part.

David:

The world as we know it is changing. Hockey is changing too. The NHL has been on the forefront of leading the sports world into the COVID-19 era and they have done a great job. The in-arena presentation in the NHL bubble is nearly perfect, with organs, goal horns and cheers.

The players seem comfortable and refreshed, getting amazing meals and being gifted pictures of family members for their hotel rooms upon arrival. While no fans obviously affects the on-ice play, I do think the impact has been minimal and the best teams on the ice are the ones advancing. All in all, the NHL is doing a great job and should be applauded for their efforts.

Jared:

Matthew Page

I am a first year student at Hofstra University and an avid Islanders fan. I have been writing for Drive4Five since March 2020. My family has been season ticket holders for the team since 2016, and hockey is my favorite sport. As I expand my knowledge in the field of Journalism, I am writing to express my love for the Islanders and the NHL.