Each day, the NHL will publicly release the list of players that are unavailable to their respective teams due to being in COVID-19 Protocol. Updated with late submissions from the Oilers, Panthers, Canadiens, and Sharks, the list is currently at just two:
San Jose – Tomas Hertl, Marcus Sorensen
As a reminder, inclusion on this list does not mean that a player has tested positive for Coronavirus or even that they have been confirmed as a close contact to another positive person. Included in the NHL’s list of possible reasons for someone being on the list is are the following:
(1) an initial positive test which remains unconfirmed until confirmatory testing is completed pursuant to the Positive Test Protocol; (2) mandated isolation for symptomatic individuals pursuant to the Positive Test Protocol; (3) required quarantine as a high-risk close contact in accordance with the Positive Test Protocol; (4) isolation based on a confirmed positive test result and/or; (5) quarantine for travel or other reasons as outlined in the COVID-19 Protocol
Players removed today: Dennis Gilbert, Colorado Avalanche; Colton Sceviour, Pittsburgh Penguins
Two more removals leave the list bare and encouraging, especially as the league allows more and more fans into buildings all across the U.S. After some early season outbreaks, it appears as though the tightened protocols are working. All that remains between the NHL and a COVID clean slate is a pair of Sharks.
*denotes new addition