NHLers are reportedly withdrawing from the 2022 Winter Olympics

For anyone who was hoping to see NHLers play at the Winter Olympics in February for the first time since 2014, it's reportedly not happening. Spittin' Chiclets is quoting a source as saying players are withdrawing from the Games.

This likely isn't a surprise to anyone. Amid rising case counts of COVID-19 and rumours of up to five weeks of isolation in China for testing positive, the league left the decision solely in the hands of players. It appears they've decided not to risk it.

The break that was planned for the Olympics will likely be used as a circuit breaker of sorts and a rest for players instead. Hopefully, the NHL will look at doing a World Cup of Hockey in 2024 or something along those lines.

The league says an official decision is coming within a few days.

The @NHL / @NHLPA discussion on Olympic participation is ongoing, with a final determination expected in the coming days.

Details: https://t.co/lEKv4lZovh pic.twitter.com/DAtgXkHoNu— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) December 19, 2021

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