AHL approves framework for season to begin Feb. 5

The American Hockey League board of governors approved the structural framework for a season to start Feb. 5, the league announced Wednesday.

Several details remain unresolved, but the league's confirmed start date allows teams and their NHL partners to better prepare for the upcoming campaign.

The AHL paused its 2019-20 season last March and officially canceled the campaign's remainder and Calder Cup playoffs in May. It was the first time since 1936 that the Calder Cup wasn't awarded.

The NHL is set to begin its 56-game schedule on Jan. 13. Though nothing is official, it's likely the AHL will also use a shortened season.