NHL shuts down Maple Leafs training camp ideas

The Toronto Maple Leafs are preparing like many other teams for the NHL playoffs, with training camps starting this week. The Leafs are an innovative bunch who love to push the envelope on development and finding the competitive edge, and this summer's training camp is no different. Unfortunately, for the Leafs, the NHL has stepped in on one of their ideas.

The #leafs were told by the NHL they couldn't continue using officials during training camp, according to Sheldon Keefe.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 15, 2020

The Leafs were using officials on their ice to make it feel a little more like an actual game. The team has been scrimmaging this week, trying to get ready for the real test on August 2nd against Columbus.

The officials being used, were Covid-19 tested and of course, their results were negative before they hit the ice with the team.

The Leafs are taking a different approach to this training camp, as they have even incorporated a Camp MVP, who we hear, may get a little bonus from the rest of the players. Not a big deal.

The #leafs will even hand out a MVP for the Phase 3 scrimmages. Summer training camp Conn Smythe. https://t.co/X6B5Cq9y5H

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 15, 2020

Photo credit:  Jeff Chevrier/Icon Sportswire 

Refs during practice? #leafsforever pic.twitter.com/vSSlLXIRfy

— Anthony Stewart (@StuMunrue) July 15, 2020

Wow, teams called the league....

Further to this: Toronto wasn't deemed to have broken any rules, per se, but the NHL wasn't comfortable exposing the players and officials to one another.

And, judging by the volume of complaints, other NHL teams weren't comfortable with it either. https://t.co/oyoPdVYbNR

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 15, 2020