The NHL announced Monday afternoon that Blackhawks defenseman Adam Boqvist and forward Alex DeBrincat were placed on the league's COVID-19 protocol list. Neither player will be available to practice, travel or participate in games until they are cleared to return.
This does not necessarily mean Boqvist and DeBrincat have tested positive for the virus; it could be close contact with someone who did test positive or showing symptoms, among other reasons. The NHL and NHLPA mutually agreed to disclose the names of the players on the protocol list, but not the reasoning for it.
Here's a full explanation:
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"Continuing for the balance of the 2020-21 season, the NHL is sharing the names of Players who are “unavailable” to the Club (to practice, travel or play in games) due to COVID protocols. Such “COVID Protocol Related Absences” can be the result of a number of factors including, among others: (1) an initial positive test which remains unconfirmed until confirmatory testing is completed pursuant to the Positive Test Protocol; (2) mandated isolation for symptomatic individuals pursuant to the Positive Test Protocol; (3) required quarantine as a high-risk close contact in accordance with the Positive Test Protocol; (4) isolation based on a confirmed positive test result and/or; (5) quarantine for travel or other reasons as outlined in the COVID-19 Protocol."
It should be noted that Boqvist and DeBrincat live together, which explains why both players are on the list. Boqvist has three assists in six games for the Blackhawks this season while DeBrincat ranks second on the team with six points.
The Blackhawks are scheduled to play the Nashville Predators on Tuesday and Wednesday before returning to Chicago to host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday and Sunday.
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