NHL postpones 3 Senators games due to COVID-19

The Ottawa Senators won't play their next three games against the New Jersey Devils, Nashville Predators, and New York Rangers as scheduled because of a COVID-19 outbreak, the NHL announced Monday.

Senators associate coach Jack Capuano and 10 Ottawa players are currently in the NHL's COVID-19 protocol.

The move marks the first time this campaign that the league has had to postpone contests due to the pandemic.

The NHL could delay more games if the Senators' positive cases continue to rise, but their clash against the Colorado Avalanche on Nov. 22 remains scheduled, according to Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch.

Ottawa's breakout has forced the club to cancel four straight practices. The NHL added that the franchise closed its training facilities, and the league is currently reviewing the team's regular-season schedule.

The NHLPA and team medical groups made the decision in conjunction.

Drake Batherson was the 10th player to join the protocol when the Sens ruled him out before their Sunday matchup against the Calgary Flames.

The shorthanded Ottawa squad is also missing forwards Austin Watson, Connor Brown, Dylan Gambrell, and Alex Formenton, defensemen Nick Holden, Josh Brown, Nikita Zaitsev, and Victor Mete, as well as goaltender Matt Murray.

A player being in COVID-19 protocol isn't necessarily indicative of a positive test.

The Sens are last in the Atlantic Division with a 4-10-1 record.

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