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No full shields for players; NHL talking off-ice protection

Posted at 6:09 AM, Jun 17, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-17 06:09:40-04

NHL players won't be expected to wear full face shields if games resume this summer amid the coronavirus pandemic. Equipment changes have not been a focus of return to play negotiations between league and NHL Players' Association.

The sides have focused on testing and other off-ice safety precautions. Because players are expected to be tested daily, there isn’t expected to be additional on-ice equipment required for practices and games.

Hockey equipment manufacturer Bauer hopes to provide those around players with some additional off-ice protection and will unveil a medical-grade face shield that coaches, personnel and others could wear. That gear has garnered interest from the NHL and some clubs, particularly those vying to host games.