3:49 PM
The NHL is implementing enhanced protocols, according to sources.
The decision came after the NHL, NHLPA and their doctors held conference calls on Tuesday night and Wednesday afternoon.
NHL players were tested every third day last season, but under the enhanced protocols they will be tested daily. All team personnel will be required to wear face masks at facilities, meetings will be held virtually, and everyone will be asked to limit social interactions outside of the hotel, rink or home. The NHL has only one player who isn't vaccine proof.
Many players have already received the booster shot, which was recommended by the NHL. The league does not intend to mandate a booster shot at this time, sources tell the network.
Under the new protocols, players can't eat indoors. They are asked to stay away from each other inside the facilities. COVID-19 testing moves from once every three days to daily, but players don't have to get tested on off days.
Over the past two days, more than two dozen NHL players have been placed on the COVID-19 protocol list. The game between the Hurricanes and the Minnesota Wild was postponed after four more players tested positive for drugs.
The Flames' season is on hold until at least December 18 after coach and 16 other team members were added to the league's protocols on Wednesday.
The NHL does not want to put its season on hold, and hopes to finish it on time. The biggest question is whether players will go to the Olympics in Beijing. The NHL has an opt-out clause in their latest collective bargaining agreement, which prevents them from participating in the Olympics.
The NHL has a deadline to withdraw from the Olympics.
