NHL commissioner Bettman says just 4 players unvaccinated

Posted October 12, 2021 7:00 am

The Associated Press

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) - NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the league has only four unvaccinated players as it opens up the 2021-22 season.

Bettman was in attendance for the regular-season opener between the back to back Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning and the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday night.

'œEverybody banding together to do the right thing," Bettman said. "Maybe that's why hockey is the ultimate team sport.'ť

Bettman said NHL officials and all the personnel that come into contact with the players are vaccinated.

'œ'œIt's something we take seriously,'ť Bettman said. 'œHealth and safety has been and will continue to be paramount.'ť

There are still COVID-19 cases involving players that are fully vaccinated.

The expansion Seattle Kraken will be missing a number of players due to Covid-19 protocols for their first game Tuesday night at Las Vegas.

The Lightning have expressed a continuing interest in hosting an outdoor game in Tampa, Florida but the weather conditions in the state remain a major obstacle.

'œDo I have severe weather concerns, the answer is yes,'ť Bettman said. 'œWeather, particularly in a warm climate can be a challenge, and the safety of the players is paramount. If it were doable, it would be great. We're just not sure it's doable because of the weather.'ť

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More AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

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