Montreal Canadiens open doors for fans for first time since pandemic Once those signatures are collected, the request will go to federal Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino for final approval.A league spokesperson said the NHL still is awaiting answers from governments.In an email to The Canadian Press, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said, “It’s a work in progress.”The sources emphasized that public health and safety would be the top priority before any approval.The winner of Monday night’s series-deciding game between the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs will play the Winnipeg Jets in the North Division final.The winner of that series will face one of three American division winners in the league semifinals.