The always outspoken Brian Burke is at it again, this time suggesting that the NHL and other major sports leagues should push to have all players receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Burke believes that the public's opinion of the vaccine would be greatly improved should marquee players step up to set the example for fans all around the globe.
"I've heard people in pro sports say, like if LeBron James gets the vaccine, that's going to convince a whole lot of people in the U.S. that are uncertain right now that it's a good thing," Burke said in an interview with The Current.
"So to me, if this will aid or improve the numbers that get the vaccination on time, then I think it's a great idea."
Burke, an analyst for Sportsnet and a former NHL General Manager, doubled down on these comments, suggesting that players receiving either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines would speed up the process of having fans return to the stands.
"What I'm suggesting is, if these athletes are going to come in contact with the public, and if they are role models that will actually improve the vaccination numbers, do it."
"The key here is to get everyone vaccinated. I mean, that's the only way that we can get back to normal with full buildings and large crowds," he said.
These comments will likely not sit well with the anti-vaxxer sub-community that is sure to exist on some level within the sports fan community, but it's tough to argue with Burkie's logic here. Athletes endorsing anything usually leads to an increase in interest in the topic. It's certainly a hot take, but one that could generate some further discussion.
Source: cbc.ca
