NHL expects 98% of players will be fully vaccinated before season

Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

NHL expects 98% of players will be fully vaccinated before 2021-22 season

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/16/21

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.

At #NHL Player Media Tour in Chicago, deputy commissioner Bill Daly tells @DailyFaceoff the league is projecting 98% of players will be fully vaccinated prior to start of the season.

Expectation is 10-15 total players will be unvaccinated - subject to more stringent protocols.
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) September 16, 2021

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.

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