The American Hockey League has had to forgo the All-Star Classic for a second consecutive season.

It was due to be hosted by Laval Rocket at Place Bell on February 6-7, 2022.

“Postponing the All-Star Classic for a second year is disappointing, but unfortunately unavoidable in the circumstances,” said France Margaret Bélanger, President, Sports and Entertainment at Groupe CH.”

The announcement was made by American Hockey League President and CEO Scott Howson, who went on to add the following in his statement.

“The Laval Rocket and Place Bell have done an outstanding job preparing to host our All-Star Classic festivities this year.”

“But with the event only six weeks away and faced with ongoing challenges pertaining to health and safety, international travel, and group gatherings, the League and the Rocket organization feel it is in everybody’s best interests to postpone the event. We remain committed to bringing the All-Star Classic to Laval in the future.”

Laval certainly deserves the opportunity to host the event, and I hope they are selected for 2023.

Place Bell is a fantastic new venue, and there aren’t many more deserving fan bases across the American Hockey League right now.

The sentiment is shared by France Margaret Bélanger. “This is one of the most prestigious events in the AHL and we look forward to hosting this major event at Place Bell. We are very grateful to our fans and partners for their loyalty during this difficult time. We also want to thank the American Hockey League for their confidence and their collaboration on this project.”

Had Laval been able to host this event, it would have been the first time since 2014 that the All-Star Classic was held in Canada.

St. John’s Newfoundland were the hosts that year, following on from Toronto back in 2007.

The extra time gained by cancelling this event would allow the AHL extra wiggle room to reschedule postponed games.

With the possibility that additional games may be postponed due to Covid-19 protocols between Christmas and New Year and beyond, the schedule will become increasingly tight.

All quotes from AHL.com

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