Bruins and Predators shut down by NHL

The NHL on Saturday shut down the Bruins and Predators through Christmas, bringing to five the number of teams in COVID-19 limbo. Weekend games for the Canucks and Maple Leafs also were postponed as the league tries to control a spiraling outbreak.

The NHL and its players association agreed to daily testing and other enhanced protocols to slow the spread of the coronavirus. They will take effect immediately and last at least through Jan. 1, with an evaluation no later than Jan. 7.

“Given the increased number of positive cases in our league within the last two weeks, and changing societal realities with the new omicron COVID19 variant, the NHLPA and NHL have collectively agreed that all Clubs shall be required to follow enhanced preventative and detection measures,” the league said in a statement.

The Bruins and Predators join the Flames, Avalanche and Panthers, which already had been shut down through next week because of outbreaks. College basketball: Andrew Nembhard scored 16 points, Rasir Bolton added 15 and No. 5 Gonzaga fought off No. 25 Texas Tech for a 69-55 win in the Colangelo Classic on Saturday.

NBA: Kyrie Irving’s return to the Nets is starting with a trip to the NBA’s health and safety protocols — and Kevin Durant is joining him. The Nets’ outbreak worsened Saturday when they announced both stars were in protocols, giving them a league-high nine players on the injury report for that reason. NFL: Only unvaccinated players and those experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19 will be tested, starting Sunday, under the NFL’s revised protocols. Also, higher risk players have until 2 p.m. Monday to send written notice if they choose to opt out, according to a memo sent to clubs on Saturday. The players will not be paid and the notice is irrevocable.