The NHL has followed the lead of the NBA and the MLS.

It’s now been officially announced that the NHL regular season has been put on hiatus due to the spread of coronavirus.

The NHL pauses the 2019-20 season. pic.twitter.com/bCi776ZFqX — NHL (@NHL) March 12, 2020

"In light of ongoing developments resulting from the coronavirus...the NHL is announcing today that it will pause the 2019-20 season beginning with tonight's games," said a statement from the league.

"The NHL has been attempting to follow the mandates of health experts and local authorities, while preparing for any possible developments without taking premature or unnecessary measures. However, following last night's news that an NBA player has tested positive for coronavirus...it is no longer appropriate to try to continue to play games at this time."

A pair of NBA players on the Utah Jazz have been diagnosed with the virus and the Jazz have played road games against the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics and New York Knicks over the past week.

Those three NBA teams share arenas with the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins and New York Rangers.

In its released statement, the NHL did express that the goal is to "resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent so that we will be able to complete the season and award the Stanley Cup."

NHL insider Frank Seravalli said the NHL has already talked to its teams about looking into rink availability into July.

The Stanley Cup is typically handed out in mid-June.