May 10, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks right wing Mike Hardman (86) in action against the Dallas Stars during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Blackhawks opened the start of training camp by announcing that 100 percent of their players have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
“It’s pretty challenging if you have players who aren’t vaccinated,” head coach Stan Bowman said. “It’s just a sign of the players’ commitment to try to be safe.”
The NHL has made it known that teams can suspend players who haven’t been vaccinated and dock their pay if they miss games with COVID this coming season. It’s also made public a goal of having 98 percent of its players vaccinated by opening night.
In the 2021 season, Chicago went 24-25-7, finishing sixth in the Central division, nine points out of the playoffs.
The Blackhawks open their preseason slate with a home game against the Detroit Red Wings Sept. 29. They begin the regular season on the road, traveling to the Colorado Avalanche Oct. 13.
–Field Level Media