Report: NHL reverts to enhanced COVID-19 protocols through at least Jan. 7

The NHL is turning the clock back to a time before the existence of COVID-19 vaccines to deal with coronavirus outbreaks impacting the league and other competitions throughout North America and the rest of the world. 

ESPN's Emily Kaplan reports the NHL, NHL Players' Association, and doctors held conference calls Tuesday night and Wednesday, and that the league is now implementing enhanced COVID-19 protocols similar to those used last season through at least Jan. 7. 

Under these guidelines, players will undergo daily virus testing, personnel are required to wear approved face coverings at team facilities, meetings are shifted to virtual experiences, and all employees are "asked" to limit social interactions not directly related to work or their home lives.  

Kaplan adds COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are "recommended" but not yet mandated. It's unclear if the NHL could change its stance on that subject. 

The Calgary Flames have had a minimum of four games postponed amid an outbreak that's seen 16 players, head coach Darryl Sutter, two assistants, and seven support staff land in the COVID-19 protocol. Positive coronavirus tests caused the Carolina Hurricanes to have one contest scrapped this week. 

Kaplan reiterated a previous report and said the NHL hasn't yet considered pausing the season.