Mooseheads rivals impacted as QMJHL suspends play due to outbreaks of COVID-19

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League has shut down games in Quebec until at least October 28 because of an increase in COVID-19 cases in the province.

While the decision isn't expected to impact the Halifax Mooseheads, a division rival is experiencing a similar fate. 

The league has allowed play to continue with five of six teams in the Maritimes Division but the Moncton Wildcats will not play while New Brunswick deals with a COVID-19 outbreak in the city, currently declared an orange zone under the province’s COVID-19 recovery plan.

Halifax Mooseheads next game against the Wildcats is scheduled for October 29 and the team's spokesperson Scott MacIntosh anticipates it will be played.

“The Wildcats are postponed until further notice,” said MacIntosh. “We're not sure how long or how short that might mean at this time but I'm certain they will follow the proper protocols and if cancellation would need to be made, we will address that in due time.”

He added that he's unsure how the season might unfold if the league's postponement is extended beyond October but he does expect the QMJHL to announce playoff plans in December.

“At this point, it's just play your regular season games and see what the future holds,” said MacIntosh.

Meanwhile, Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil said following cabinet on October 15 that while its an important part of the economy, he has no plans to give the league financial support to deal with the pandemic.

“Of all the challenges facing our province, I don't believe the number one priority in the minds of Nova Scotians is to be investing in the Q-League hockey,” said McNeil.

The Mooseheads are strictly adhering to Nova Scotia's protocols and MacIntosh assures fans that watching games at Scotiabank Centre is safe.

“I certainly understand any concerns fans would have,” said MacIntosh. “We will not play if it is not safe.”