As Canucks prepare to open Rogers Arena, 26 NHL players have tested positive for Covid-19 since June 8th

Since Phase 2 of the NHL’s return to play plan began on June 8th, 26 players have tested positive for Covid-19, the league announced late Monday morning. As reported by Patrick Johnston of The Province, Canucks players may return to Rogers Arena for voluntary workouts as of tomorrow.

Phase 2 featured team practice facilities opening to allow players to get into shape for training camp, which can begin as early as July 10th. Since its second phase began, the NHL has administered over 1,450 tests which resulted in 15 players testing positive. The league also notes that 11 players have tested positive outside of Phase 2 within the last three weeks, for a total of 26 cases.

As per the league statement, all players who tested positive have been isolated and are following CDC and Health Canada protocols.

Over 250 players have made a return to their team’s facility, with the majority of the Canucks’ players arriving in Vancouver this past weekend. The Canucks released a timelapse video of the ice being put in this weekend in anticipation of their players returning.

The league says it will continue to provide regular updates on the number of tests administered to players, along with the results of those tests.