KC Mavericks, Wichita Thunder off the ice as coronavirus prompts ECHL to suspend season

The ECHL, which has hockey teams in Kansas City and Wichita, has suspended its 2019-20 season in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus.

A statement issued by the league Thursday said the decision to halt the season was made “for the safety of our fans, players and employees.”

From the statement: “The ECHL and its member teams continue to work with national and local health officials and local governance to monitor the situation. In the interim, we encourage those in the ECHL community to take precautions and stay safe during this time.”

The NHL has also suspended its season.

The Wichita Thunder (24-30-8) — affiliated with the NHL Edmonton Oilers and AHL Bakersfield Condors — and Kansas City Mavericks (24-32-4) — affiliated with the NHL Calgary Flames and AHL Stockton Heat — were bringing up the rear in the ECHL Mountain Division.

The final day of the ECHL regular season was to be April 5, with the Kelly Cup playoffs to begin April 8.

Joel Lomurno, general manager of the Wichita Thunder, said he understands the stakes as communities and government leaders act to slow the spread of the pandemic.

“While it is unfortunate that we are having to suspend our season,” he said in a statement, “we understand that the safety of our players, staff and fans is the utmost priority.”