The American Hockey League has announced that they will be launching their 2020-21 season on February 5th.

The announcement aligns with a goal the league set out in October for the early February start date.

In a statement, AHL president and CEO Scott Howsen said the league approved the “structural framework” for the upcoming campaign.

“Details are still being worked out,” said Howsen,” but this step allows our teams and their National Hockey League partners to better determine their plans for the coming season.

“We look forward to dropping the puck on Feb. 5.”

According to Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston, the four Canadian AHL teams (Winnipeg, Toronto, Belleville and Laval) will face each other this season.

On Twitter: @zjlaing