Germany, Sweden hit with multiple positive tests ahead of WJHC

COVID-19 is making its presence felt just over two weeks ahead of the World Junior Hockey Championship.

Two German players - Lukas Reichel and Nino Kinder - have been ruled out of the tournament after testing positive for the virus, the team announced Tuesday. Reichel was chosen 17th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks at the 2020 draft and collected five points in seven games at last year's tournament.

Additionally, Sweden removed Albin Grewe from its preliminary roster after he became the fourth player to test positive, joining William Wallinder, Karl Henriksson, and William Eklund, according to Hockeysverige's Uffe Bodin. Grewe and Wallinder are both Detroit Red Wings prospects, while Henriksson is a member of the New York Rangers organization.

Tre Kronor's head coach, Tomas Monten, has also contracted COVID-19, per Bodin.

Lastly, IIHF president Rene Fasel has tested positive, although he wasn't planning on traveling to Edmonton for the tournament, reports Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.