The NHL and NHLPA have no obligation to share positive test results during Phase 3

More information has begun to surface regarding the new CBA and the NHL/NHLPA's RTP protocols, ahead of the start of Phase 3 (training camp), which is set to commence on July 13th.

According to TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie, the NHL and NHLPA have no obligation to identify players, coaches or staff who experience COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for the virus during Phase 3.

In theory, a positive test should not occur once players, coaches, staff and other league officials enter the bubble, as the area is isolated and anyone who is not tested and not permitted will be prohibited from entering. That, paired with the rigorous cleaning regiment, frequent testing and mandatory social distancing protocols that will exist when players are not on the ice surface should be enough to avoid having an outbreak on the campuses in Toronto and Edmonton.

Further to these measures, players will be required to wear facemasks at all times while around training facilities, unless exercising or participating in practices and during games.

The NHL and the NHLPA havd earned some high praise for their collaboration on these Return To Play protocols from around the league and within the hub cities. Their incredibly detailed blueprint for bringing hockey back, while at the same time, keeping players, staff and officials safe is nothing short of brilliant. If they can pull this off successfully without an outbreak of the virus, they will become trailblazers for the return of professional sports during the ongoing pandemic.

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