Jets captain Blake Wheeler symptomatic with COVID-19, out at least four games

The Winnipeg Jets have only played twice thus far this fall but have already been handed a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is still a concern even with the existence of safe and available vaccines. 

According to ESPN/The Associated Press and Scott Billeck of the Winnipeg Sun, Jets captain Blake Wheeler is symptomatic after testing positive for COVID-19 and, as a result, will miss at least the next four games, beginning with Tuesday's contest at the 2-0-0 Minnesota Wild. 

Per the terms for the 2021-22 NHL season, Wheeler must isolate for a minimum of 10 days, be declared free of symptoms, and receive the approval of a doctor before he can return to action. 

All players on the winless Jets are vaccinated against the coronavirus, and the club has thus far reported no additional positive test results. Wheeler has no goals and one assist thus far on the campaign. 

Jets head coach Paul Maurice admitted his team was "tight" on Monday after Wheeler entered the league's COVID-19 protocol, but forward Andrew Copp was able to somewhat joke about things Tuesday. 

"Can’t just be licking every doorknob and doing that kind of thing," Copp said. "I guess a little bit of an awakening, possibly, but we still got to go out and play hockey. We’re lucky enough to have everyone vaccinated so, hopefully, that keeps it out, maybe, just that hair more. Some guys have had it, so hopefully, that immunity lasts. Just trying to treat it like an injury right now. Obviously, we’ve played some games without Blake in the past, so everyone is just gonna have to step up."