NHL: Flames games postponed at least until Thursday

NEW YORK – Matches scheduled to be played by Calgary Flames have been postponed until Thursday, December 16 inclusive due to concerns about COVID-19.

The National Hockey League announced in a press release Monday morning.

And the National Hockey Federation said in a press statement, that the decision was taken after consulting with the medical authorities in the league, the Players Association and the club.

The Flames were scheduled to travel to Chicago to face the Blackhawks there in their only match on Monday. They were scheduled to visit the Nashville Predators on Tuesday and host the Toronto Maple Leafs Thursday night.

At the earliest, the Flames could play their next game on Saturday at home against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The National Hockey Federation clarified in its statement that six players and one team employee were placed in the protocol related to COVID-19 during the 24-hour period.

On Monday morning, Flames said the players in question were strikers Elias Lindholm, Andrew Manjiabani, Brad Richardson and Adam Rosica, as well as defenders Chris Tanev and Nikita Zadorov.

The NHL has expressed concerns about the continued spread and the potential for new positive cases to emerge over the next few days.

The association also said the team’s training complex had been closed, a move that took effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

The NHL has also begun the process of changing the Flames schedule.

Despite losing their last four games, the Flames (15-7-6) are second in the Pacific Division, one point behind the Anaheim Ducks by two games in the bank.

So far this season, Ottawa senators and New Yorkers have also seen some of their games postponed due to COVID-19. Three matches in the Senate and two Islanders have been postponed.