Could the NHL go back to taxi squads because of AHL COVID issues?

On this edition of 32 Thoughts, Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek discuss Mitch Marner's status, the Canadiens' interest in agent Kent Hughes, if the NHL will go back to taxi squads, Jake DeBrusk's trade value, and more.

The NHL might need to consider bringing back taxi squads because of COVID-19 issues in the American Hockey League.

With seven AHL teams shut down currently because of COVID protocols, the return of taxi squads could help NHL teams deal with roster challenges.

On the 32 Thoughts segment on Hockey Night in Canada on Saturday night, Jeff Marek reported NHL commissioner Bill Daly told him the league is not considering taxi squads again at this point.

But Marek said it's possible that could change.

Earlier this week, the Boston Bruins couldn't call up players from AHL Providence because of a COVID outbreak.

"With all the talk about (emergency goalies) and the inability to call up players from the American Hockey League, I know we don't want to discuss it but we may have the conversation about taxi squads again," Marek said.

Last season, each NHL team had between four and six players on taxi squads to assist in the recall process.

The AHL had different schedules and start dates for each of its divisions last year and did not award the Calder Cup.

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