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.