Flames GM Treliving holding out hope for return to ice

Calgary Flames general manager Brad Treliving is still optimistic about a return to the ice this season.

"We remain hopeful that at some point we'll be able to see what this team can accomplish if and when we get back together," Treliving said on a video conference call Tuesday, according to The Canadian Press.

Treliving added that while he hopes for a return to hockey, he understands that it isn't a top priority in the world right now.

"What we're doing is way down on the list of important things. I've got family members, nieces and aunts, that are in the medical community," Treliving said. "The people on the front lines, we want to recognize them both in our city, our province, throughout the country, and globally."

While reflecting on where Calgary stood prior to the league's hiatus, Treliving noted that the Flames were in third place in the Pacific Division, four points behind the Edmonton Oilers, and were scheduled to finish their season against their provincial rivals last Saturday.

"It's not lost on us Saturday night would have been a big night, the conclusion of the regular season and the final Battle of Alberta," Treliving said. "I'm sure there would have been lots of implications with that game and certainly leading up to start this week with the playoffs."

Commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday that there is a possibility the regular season may not be completed, but that the league is still weighing its options amid the coronavirus pandemic.