First NHL player diagnosed with coronavirus

An unidentified player for the Ottawa Senators tested positive for the coronavirus, marking the first case reported in the National Hockey League.

The team said Tuesday evening that one of its players tested positive for COVID-19, according to The Associated Press.

The affected player reported mild symptoms and is currently isolated. Anyone who had close contact with him will be notified.

Players, coaches and other staff from the team are advised to remain isolated and monitor their health, with no reports that any other team members have been tested for the virus. 

Deputy Commissioner for the NHL Bill Daly said in an email Wednesday that current medical advice dictates people should not be screened for the virus unless they show symptoms, according to the report.

“That doesn’t mean that potentially exposed individuals shouldn’t take proper precautions such as adhering to self-quarantine principles as necessary and immediately reporting to medical staff should they become symptomatic,” Daly said.

Commissioner Gary Bettman declared last week that the season was on pause while maintaining hopes that the league would resume and still award the Stanley Cup. The NHL Players’ Association said Monday that the earliest resumption date could begin in May, following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Last week, Bettman penned an official statement saying, “Our goal is to resume play as soon as it is appropriate and prudent … we thank NHL fans for your patience and hope you stay healthy,” he said.