COVID CONCERNS CANCEL PRACTICE
The Blackhawks’ COVID-19 concerns escalated Saturday.
They added two more players to the NHL’s COVID-19 protocol list, raising their total to five, shortly after canceling their scheduled practice at Fifth Third Arena ‘‘out of an abundance of caution due to potential exposure of COVID-19.’’
Forward Ryan Carpenter and defenseman Nicolas Beaudin, both of whom played in the Hawks’ 2-1 loss Friday to the Blue Jackets at the United Center, are the two new players on the list.
They join forward Alex DeBrincat and defenseman Adam Boqvist, who were put on the list Monday — with coach Jeremy Colliton saying they would miss at least two weeks — and forward Lucas Wallmark, who was added Wednesday.
Players on the COVID-19 protocol list haven’t necessarily tested positive — showing symptoms or coming in close contact with someone who has tested positive are other possible reasons to be put on the list — but it’s certainly a concerning sign.
As of Saturday evening, the Hawks remained scheduled to hold their morning skate at 9:30 a.m. Sunday and to play the Blue Jackets at 6 p.m., but that could change.
‘‘The Chicago Blackhawks organization has and will continue to follow all recommended guidelines to protect the health and safety of players and staff as set by the NHL, as well as local and state agencies,’’ the team said in a statement. ‘‘The Blackhawks will not comment further at this time, and information on Sunday’s schedule will be announced at a later time.’’