Three members of USA's men's Olympic team in COVID-19 protocol

The men's Olympic hockey tournament won't get underway until next Wednesday, but a few teams are dealing with COVID-19 issues, the latest being the United States.

According to Chris Peters of DailyFaceoff, Jake Sanderson, Steven Kampfer and Andy Miele are in COVID-19 protocol. Sanderson is still in Los Angeles, while Kampfer and Miele are in Beijing.

"Per USA Hockey, defensemen Jake Sanderson (OTT) and Steven Kampfer, along with forward Andy Miele are in COVID-19 protocols. Kampfer and Miele are isolating in Beijing, Sanderson remains in Los Angeles," Peters said.

He added, "USA Hockey is optimistic they will be available to play once they clear, but it is unclear how long they'll remain in protocols. USA does have Justin Abdelkader on standby. Sanderson and Kampfer are two of the team's best defensemen and expected to play big roles."

The United States is set to open their tournament on Thursday, February 10th at 8:10am ET against the hosts, China. As Peters points out, even if the trio of Sanderson, Kampfer and Miele are unable to play, the USA will still have a full roster.

"USA men open the tournament against China on Feb. 10, then have Canada on Feb. 12. Currently have six defensemen and 13 forwards available, so basically a full international roster for the opener if those three don't clear in time."

Per USA Hockey, defensemen Jake Sanderson (OTT) and Steven Kampfer, along with forward Andy Miele are in COVID-19 Protocols. Kampfer and Miele are isolating in Beijing, Sanderson remains in Los Angeles (as first reported by @SchlossmanGF).— Chris Peters (@chrismpeters) February 4, 2022

USA men open the tournament against China on Feb. 10, then have Canada on Feb. 12. Currently have six defensmen and 13 forwards available, so basically a full international roster for the opener if those three don't clear in time.— Chris Peters (@chrismpeters) February 4, 2022

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