BUFFALO, NY – NHL players knew they would take a risk with a season in the COVID-19 era. But they didn’t want to take any unnecessary risks.
The Sabers think they were forced to do that, and they are furious.
The NHL has postponed Tuesday’s game between the Sabers and Islanders in New York, saying more time is needed for Buffalo’s required COVID-19 contact tracking and testing protocols.
But the issue dates back to the weekend. The Sabers hosted New Jersey on Saturday and Sunday, despite the Devils showing significant signs of a coronavirus outbreak.
New Jersey’s Travis Zajac was added to the COVID-19 protocol list on Friday and did not travel to Buffalo. Kyle Palmieri played on Saturday and was added to the list on Sunday.
The Sabers have requested more information from the NHL and the Devils about the health of their opponent, according to multiple sources. Their request was denied.
The Sabers were wary of playing …