The Western Hockey League has announced the conclusion of the 2019-20 WHL Regular Season in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It comes after a meeting with the WHL Board of Governors, in consultation with medical professionals. There were 54 games left in the season, which will not be played according to WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.

“The WHL takes the safety of our players, officials, staff, fans, and everyone associated with the WHL very seriously,” he said, in a statement. “Given the ongoing public health developments regarding COVID-19, we deemed it necessary to cancel the remaining games on the 2019/20 WHL Regular Season Schedule.”

The regular season was originally set to end on March 22, with playoffs set to begin on March 27.

Robison says the league will continue to monitor the situation, and the hope is to still hold the 2020 playoffs at a later date.

“We thank WHL fans and partners for your patience and understanding during these challenging times,” added Robison, noting the final standings for the 2019/20 Regular Season were determined by using the win percentage for all 22 teams.

The Kamloops Blazers, Portland Winterhawks, Edmonton Oil Kings, and the Prince Albert Raiders are the four Division champions. The Blazers were the only team to clinch that title before the regular season was suspended.

The Winterhawks have also been crowned the regular season champions.