NHL teams will start Phase 2 of return on Monday June 8
The NHL is getting closer to coming back, as teams will start Phase 2 on Monday.
The novel coronavirus pandemic has halted everything in this world. But people and businesses are starting to get back on track. And that includes the NHL. The league and its player association has already agreed to a 24 team expanded postseason. Phase 1 has already begun. But now it’s time for Phase 2.
On Thursday night, right after some updates to the 24 team postseason were given, the league announced that Phase 2 will officially start on Monday, June 8. This means teams will be able to have their players come to their facilities and train. Of course, this will be quite limited, as only six players will be allowed to be at the facility. If the facility cannot hold six players with proper social distancing, the number will be adjusted accordingly.
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Teams do not have to open up on June 8. Some might not be able to, depending on the circumstances. However, teams will be allowed to begin the necessary tests required for players to start coming to the facilities. This includes testing for the novel coronavirus and physicals.
It is not mandatory for players to show up yet. For many players, they might not be able to or want to report to their home city yet. The practices in Phase 2 are voluntary and teams can’t force players to show up.
Teams are required to help players return to their home city if they want to. This includes scheduling charter flights. Players will be reimbursed for travel expenses, up to $1,500. Also, teams must provide housing for the players if they do not have permanent residences in the club city or its surrounding areas.
Also, some players might have a 14-day self-quarantine period, depending on where they came from and their travel arrangements. Players and staff members will have daily testing and symptom checks. While players will be allowed to be on the ice for conditioning and practicing, coaches will not be allowed on the ice. When players are not on the ice, they’ll be allowed to use the weight room, exercise room, etc.
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Staff members will be quite limited during these Phase 2 practices to ensure proper social distancing and to minimize the chances of a positive test. Media members, family members, and player agents are among the people who will not be allowed to be at the facilities during these practices.