ESPN obtained a memo from the NHL on Wednesday that stated that the NHL is changing its COVID-19 protocols. This will reduce the standard isolation time for players who have tested positive for the virus to five days.
These protocols are in line with the new CDC recommendations. If a positive test is performed and the player is symptomatic, they can be released from isolation for five days. Players must wear a mask for five days after that except for games or practices.
The NHL memo states that the new guidance will only apply if it is approved by local authorities. While the NFL and NBA made similar changes this week to reduce isolation periods, the NHL’s seven Canadian teams had more difficulty.
The Canadian federal and provincial governments were stricter than the U.S. in regards to testing and isolation protocols during the pandemic.
Like the previous protocols, players who have been positive for a test will be placed in isolation and not tested again for at least 90 days.
The NHL has already canceled 80 games this season. Nine games are being postponed Tuesday by the NHL. These are all in Canadian markets where fans cannot attend at full capacity.
ESPN reported Tuesday that Bill Daly, NHL deputy Commissioner, said the NHL is confident it will finish the regular season before April ends and that each team will have an 82-game schedule.
To avoid further disruption, the NHLPA was willing to allow teams to have taxi squads up until the All Star break.