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NHL issues notice to players regarding booster shots

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TJ Tucker
November 24, 2021  (9:46)
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While the NHL chose to impose restrictions on players who refused to get their COVID-19 vaccinations, the league is being much more relaxed when it comes to recommended booster shots of the vaccine.

"NHL sent a COVID-19 letter to all clubs acknowledging vaccination booster shots remain a players choice," said TSN's Darren Dreger. "Those with J&J (which is a one-done vaccine) are eligible for the booster 2 months after their shotother vaccinations are 6 months. Booster is personal choice unless government restrictions change."

Unvaccinated NHLers, of which they are very few, are not able to cross the border into Canada as they would have to self-isolate and would end up missing the game or games anyway. Those players are not paid for any games they miss due to being unvaccinated. The most high profile case is likely Tyler Bertuzzi of the Detroit Red Wings, who has chosen to sit out any games taking place in Canada.

The Canadian government has since announced that unvaccinated athletes will not be allowed into the country regardless starting on January 15th of 2022. A previous exemption was allowed to athletes who tested negative. They would have to remain at their hotels for their time in Canada, but could play with their teammates in games. While the NHL could have applied for this "national interest exemption" for its players, it chose not do to so. The NBA and MLB did.