NHL expects 98% of players will be fully vaccinated before 2021-22 season
It appears the NHL is very close to having all of its players fully vaccinated.
According to Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Thursday the league expects 98% of players will be fully vaccinated before the 2021-22 season begins. Only 10-15 players are expected to be unvaccinated.
The Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames and Philadelphia Flyers are among the teams known to have a 100% vaccination rate.
The NHL and NHL Players Association have been encouraging vaccination throughout the offseason. Players have also been warned about potential pay losses during the upcoming season if they don't get the shot.
According to The Athletic, the NHLPA has gone over potential pay loss scenarios for players. Teams can withhold pay if an unvaccinated player gets COVID-19 or if a player can't accompany the team because vaccines are required for travel.
While players do not have to be vaccinated, the NHL requires anyone in close contact with the players to be fully vaccinated.
More must-reads: