Breaking: NHL players that want to opt-out must inform teams by Tuesday

Reports are breaking late this evening that both the NHL and NHLPA are very close to finalizing a deal. In the agreement is a 40 page Return to Play document. One extremely important piece of information has to do with opting out of playing.

Per Bob McKenzie of TSN, “Any player may opt out of Phase 3 and Phase 4 without penalty of any kind, but must make that decision and notify his club in writing by no later than 5 p.m. ET on July 7; Each of the 24 NHL clubs in Phase 3/4 must submit a list of participating players by no later than July 9.”

Update 11:15 PM, opt-out is three days after ratification

Details of NHL Return to Play protocols emerging

Gary Bettman and Donald Fehr almost have an agreement (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

At this time details are dropping at a feverish pace with pieces of the CBA language as well. Here are the most important points:

https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1279934139660152833?s=20

Kaapo Kakko is expected to play, at the moment

Players like Kaapo Kakko could be forced out, or some may opt out due to COVID-19 (Getty Images)

“If the doctors and the world of science told us not to play him, he’s not playing, it’s that simple,” John Davidson told John Giannone in a recent Zoom call. “We’ve had many discussions with him (Kakko). He’s been tested, he’s good.” As of this moment, Kaapo Kakko has been cleared to play but JD wanted it understood that the decision will ultimately be Kakko’s who’s a diabetic and could be at increased risk for COVID-19.

“As of right now we look to have him in the lineup,” JD stated. He then went into further details, “If there is a change that comes along and they say we don’t think he should be playing, he’s not playing.” Regardless of all the science and doctors’ clearance, Kaapo must be comfortable as JD clarified when answering. “It’s his decision remember, and (he) wants to play, and talks to his family, he’s playing.”

That change now comes in the form of a pre-participation exam. While nothing is expected to change, it is important to note that the final determination will take place before Phase 3 begins.

More importantly, we will know this week which NHL stars will opt out this summer.

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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