(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

TORONTO (AP) The NHL hopes to have players back in team facilities soon -- with plenty of precautions.

The league, which paused its season on March 12 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, released a memo Monday saying it is targeting early next month as the start date for Phase 2 of its return-to-play protocol, including the opening of practice rinks and allowing small, voluntary group workouts on and off the ice.

"It has not yet been determined when precisely Phase 2 will start or how long it may last," the said read. "We are continuing to monitor developments in each of the club's markets, and may adjust the overall timing if appropriate, following discussion with all relevant parties."

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