Boughner explains ‘chaos' of Sharks' COVID-19 outbreak

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Back on Oct. 30, just hours before the Sharks' home clash with the Winnipeg Jets, seven players and head coach Bob Boughner were entered into COVID-19 protocol. With several key players out, including Erik Karlsson and star rookie Jonathan Dahlen, five Barracuda players were brought up last-minute and assistant John MacLean took over as interim head coach.

Boughner finally spoke to the media for the first time since finally coming off COVID-19 protocol, and explained how he and the Sharks navigated the difficult circumstances.

"It was chaos," Boughner told reporters.

"I was sitting with my suit on in the coaches room at 5 o'clock for the game, I don't even remember who we were playing but it was a Saturday night, and Ray Tufts came in and said 'Hey you just tested positive, you got to go home.' "

Boughner explained that he was "doubly vaccinated" and thanked his immunization for limiting the symptoms the 50-year-old experienced.

"I say thank god for the vaccines because, it worked, I didn't get sick and I could still manage my day and go on fairly normal," Boughner said.

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Boughner said all the players who went on the COVID-19 list are expected to be healthy before Saturday's game against the Colorado Avalanche in Denver.

The Sharks went 3-1-1 without the group of players in protocol, proving the increased depth that this team has not had over the past two seasons.

After a chaotic few weeks, the Sharks have weathered the storm and will continue their five-game East Coast road trip on Thursday night against the Jets.

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