Calgary Flames' Travis Hamonic to opt out of NHL Return to Play

Following the NHL's announcement of a Return to Play and intent to jump into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, teams are set to begin working towards retaking the ice in early August.

While many athletes are excited at the opportunity to return and battle for the Cup, some are understandably concerned, given the health risks stemming from the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

Among those concerned with the return, Calgary defenseman Travis Hamonic.

On Friday, Flames General Manager Brad Treliving announced that Hamonic will be opting out of the Return to Play set to begin in August.

Treliving issued the following statement regarding Hamonic's decision;

"Earlier this evening Travis called me to inform us that he has decided to opt out of the NHL Return to Play Program. Travis explained that due to family considerations, he has made the difficult decision not to participate in the Stanley Cup Qualifier and Playoffs.

While we will miss Travis in our line-up, we understand and respect his decision.

Our focus remains on preparation for training camp and our upcoming series in the NHL Qualifying Round."

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