NHL making 4 changes to in-arena COVID-19 protocols
The NHL is making four changes to its in-arena protocols to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the league announced Thursday.
TV viewers will notice the removal of the glass directly behind all team benches. The league is hoping this will increase airflow in an area where players and coaches are close together for an extended period of time.
Sportsnet's Chris Johnston offered clarity on how "puck over the glass" penalties will now be called.
For what it's worth: NHL referees can still call "puck over the glass" penalties in instances where it's fired over the playing benches with glass removed. But they must be sure it would have cleared the previous glass level; otherwise, no call.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) February 4, 2021
Additionally, the league indicated it's considering requesting the use of portable air cleaners behind team benches "in order to improve the indoor air quality and mitigate the airborne viral transmission."
The NHL initially advised players and coaches to show up to the arena no more than one hour and 45 minutes before puck drop unless they're receiving treatment for injuries, but that policy was reversed after resistance from players. Players are now permitted inside arenas at any time if they're engaging in preparations for a game, according to ESPN's Greg Wyshynski. The league also wants meetings to be held virtually.
Lastly, teams are being asked to use additional locker room space to ensure players are at least six feet apart at their stalls. Clubs without the space are being asked to create it now. Portable stalls will be provided if necessary.
The Minnesota Wild were the latest team to have their season halted by COVID-19. Their games are postponed through Feb. 9 after five players landed on the COVID-19 list Wednesday.
The New Jersey Devils have been hit the hardest, as 10 of their players were placed on the COVID-19 list Monday.