On Friday, the NHL issued a statement announcing 11 players out of a pool exceeding 200 have tested positive for coronavirus since the league’s second phase for returning to play opened on June 8.
The statement was released the same day the Tampa Bay Lightning revealed five members of the organization (three players and two staffers) had tested positive.
The statement reads:
“Since NHL Clubs were permitted to open their training facilities on June 8, all Players entering these facilities for voluntary training have been subject to mandatory testing for COVID-19. Through today, in excess of 200 Players have undergone multiple testing. A total of 11 of these Players have tested positive. All Players who have tested positive have been self-isolated and are following CDC and Health Canada protocols.
“The NHL will provide a weekly update on the number of tests administered to Players and the results of those tests. The League will not be providing information on the identity of the Players or their Clubs.”
This second phase involves players working out in limited groups at team facilities and being tested regularly.
The Penguins announced an unidentified player tested positive for coronavirus June 4, before the second phase began.
The NHL has been on hold since March 12 and is aiming to resume the 2019-20 season with a postseason tournament beginning in August.
