The National Hockey League is dealing with a growing number of positive COVID-19 tests as are other professional sports leagues. They've already postponed several games in response, and now, the League has introduced their latest measure.
In a decision announced minutes ago, the NHL has suspended cross-border games through December 23:
“We will continue to play the 2021-22 regular-season schedule,” the NHL said in a statement. “Although there has been a recent increase in positive COVID test results among Players, coaches and hockey staff, there have been a low number of positive cases that have resulted in concerning symptoms or serious illness. Therefore, the NHLPA’s and NHL’s medical experts have determined that, with virtually all Players and Club hockey staff fully vaccinated, the need to temporarily shut down individual teams should continue to be made on a case-by-case basis. The effects of recently introduced enhanced prevention and detection measures will be evaluated daily. The NHL and NHLPA, along with their medical experts, will be monitoring not only the number and pattern of positive COVID results, but also the depth of Club line-ups so as to ensure both the health and safety of the Players and the integrity of League competition.”
The @NHLPA and @NHL have agreed to continue the 2021-22 regular-season schedule, with details of that agreement outlined at the link below and in this thread.
Details: https://t.co/lEKv4lZovh pic.twitter.com/Qxf8XBE7ni
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) December 19, 2021
The Detroit Red Wings will not be affected by this, as their next scheduled game north of the Canadian border ins't until February 26 against Toronto.
