It’s been tough to mitigate the risk of the virus in sports due to close contact. However, NHL is letting up due to the vaccinate in rotation. This is a plus right now because it’s just in time for the playoffs. Here are the highlights:

• A memo view by The Associated Press shows a letter sent to teams and players that says new protocols will take hold once a traveling party is at least 85% fully vaccinated. A whole traveling party for a team can be up to 56 members, which means at least 48 have to be vaccinated.
• Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour supports the idea because this could bring back some normalcy to the sport. It’ll be one less thing players have to worry about, which can help them focus more on the game. 
• The changes also mean loosened restrictions for indoor and outdoor dining, testing frequency, mask protocol, and even quarantining. 
• Washington Capitals goaltender Craig Anderson says to bring back to the small, private dinners or going out with teams can bring back some much-needed bonding. These are the little things that help teammates get to know each other on a personal level. 
• Before this, strict Covid-19 rules have been in the norm where they’ve been in total isolation. The fact that they can get out of their hotel until game time def takes a mental toll. 
• Some say that vaccine equity in Canada may be a loss leader. U.S.-born Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck says it’s all about government guidelines. While it’s great the U.S. has a solid vaccine rollout, Hellebuyck doesn’t know the logistics of the vaccine in Canada. 
• Hurricanes defenseman Brady Skjei said it’ll great for teammates to get outside and enjoy some fresh air instead of being stuck in hotel rooms all day.