Duffer’s Dabbles: NHL Declaring A Pox On Unvaccinated Players; Clifton’s COVID Honeymoon

According to a post from Sportsnet’s NHL guru Elliotte Friedman, the NHL is planning to take a tough stance this season with players who opt out of the COVID-19 vaccine. Suspensions without pay will be in order for unvaccinated players who test postive for the virus.

As well, unvaccinated players will be facing much more strict regulations away from the rink than players who’ve got the vaccine. According to published reports, 85% of NHL players have full vaccinations for COVID-19.

Thursday saw MLSE, owners of several pro sports teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs, announcing that it will be requiring vaccinations for all employees and game-night staff.

Boston: Speaking of COVID, there are probably worse infectious diseases out there that could ruin a fellow’s wedding night. However, according to a social media post he’s since deleted, Boston Bruins defenseman Connor Clifton claimed he caught COVID on his honeymoon.

Hertl On The Block?

San Jose: Sharks forward Tomas Hertl would be one of the most sought after UFAs in the class of 2022 if he gets there. And it sounds like he might. Hertil confirmed that he hasn’t been contacted by the team to begin contract talks. He’d be a popular player at the NHL trade deadline were Hertl on the block.

Philadelphia: The Flyers locked up a big piece of their future. They signed forward Joel Farabee to a six-year contract extension worth $30 million.

#OHL Announces Disciplinary Action:

L. Mailloux (LDN) suspended indefinitely.

— OntarioHockeyLeague (@OHLHockey) September 2, 2021

OHL: Ontario Hockey League commissioner Dave Branch doesn’t fool around. He has suspended London Knights forward Logan Mailloux indefinitely for inappropriate conduct. The 2021 NHL entry draft saw the Montreal Canadiens picking Mailloux in the first round . Mallioux can apply for reinstatement in January.

Arizona: Here’s the latest in the saga that is the existence of the Arizona Coyotes. The team has submitted a bid to build a new arena in Tempe. We hear there’s an NHL-ready rink in Quebec.

Pittsburgh: The Penguins have signed journeyman goaltender Louis Domingue.

Detroit: It was a good day to be a journeyman. The Red Wings signed forward Carter Rowney. Rowney is a Stanley Cup winner (Pittsburgh, 2017) and a right shot. He also offers a security blanket if none of Detroit’s young forward prospects – Joe Veleno, Lucas Raymond or Jonatan Berggren – look to be ready for prime time during the preseason.