Players, league agree to rules during shutdown

There are, of course, no NHL games taking place at the moment, but that doesn't mean players are able to do what they want. The league and the NHL Players Association have agreed to some basic rules while play is suspended in order to ensure the safety of players and to ensure they are ready to get right back into it should the regular season be restarted. 

According to Pierre LeBrun of TSN, a memo signed today states the following: 

1. Players for now are asked to self-quarantine in their home NHL cities. The league wants players to stick around in case things can get rolling again. They are also being encouraged to work out at home and not organize any informal skates at public arenas. There are exceptions now for players on injured reserve who need treatment/rehab. They can go to an NHL facility to get it. Also players who want to self-quarantine away from NHL home city because their family lives elsewhere (like traded players), can do so after advising team. 

2. At some point to be determined, players may skate at NHL facilities in small groups. This makes sense considering the whole point of the shut down is the avoid large gatherings of people. We're certain, if this is allowed, each team will come up with their own schedule of who can be at the facility and when. 

3. When or if the 2019-20 season resumes, their will be a mini training camp to ensure players are in game shape when play officially begins. 

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, any player who develops COVID-19 symptoms should contact their club's Medical Director or head trainer immediately, "who will consult with the Club’s infectious disease specialist to determine next steps." The memo also asks players to tell team medical staff if they've come in contact with infected person. 

It's also worth noting that several reporters have stated that players will continue to be paid during the suspension of play. Apparently there is a clause in the current collective bargaining agreement that allows owners to negotiate new salaries with players in the event that play is suspended due to unforeseen circumstances. That's being ignored for the moment. 

All in all, it seems the NHL is preparing as much as it can for the 2019-20 season to resume at some point, even if hope seems slim that it will happen. Hope for the best and prepare for the worst is about all anyone can do.