Lou Lamoriello no longer allowed to ban unvaccinated player from the team
Last season the NHL entered the year with brand new COVID protocols, while most players agreed to be vaccinated, a select few exercised their right to refuse. The NHL's rules last season allowed teams to ban unvaccinated players from team activities and that's exactly what happened to Bode Wilde. Wilde who exercised his right to remain unvaccinated was shipped overseas to Sweden to continue his development.
This season though the and NHLPA have altered the rules and players are no longer allowed to be denied participation in club activities based on their vaccination status.
Hockey Insider Chris Johnston reported the following on Twitter:
However, NHL players can't be denied from participating in club activities based on their vaccination status during the 2022/23 season unless stipulated by regulations imposed by the NHL/NHLPA protocol or relevant government and health authorities.
That means Wilde can continue choosing to be unvaccinated and return to North America to play hockey. After speaking his mind on Instagram about his decision, it doesn't appear he's open to changing his views, either as Wilde shared this comment on his Instagram:
Hoping my human rights are enough to let me play what a world.
Whether or not you agree with the rule change or players wanting or not wanting to get vaccinated you don't want to see players getting punished for their beliefs when it comes to their bodies.
| POLL | ||
Should Bode Wilde be able to play in the NHL? | ||
| Yes, he has every right | 62 | 70.5 % |
| No, teams should be able to decide | 26 | 29.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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