Sam Girard added to Covid-19 list

After two straight days in which the Avalanche didn’t add any players to their existing Covid-19 protocol list, Sam Girard was put on it today.

Did Sam Girard test positive for the virus, or is this a case where he was potentially exposed to someone who already has it? We’re not allowed to know that part, although the trend throughout the league has been on the latter.

With the Avs already on pause until at least a Feb. 14 scheduled game in Las Vegas, it’s possible No. 49 still won’t miss any games. It’s all be about the testing from here on out. Avs players are essentially on full lockdown for this pause. They can’t go out in public, they can’t skate in public. They can be around their families at home, and that’s about it.

And, if things get worse with the protocol list, players may be presented with a Faustian bargain again: either be in a bubble at home now too (Living in a hotel, no visits with the family) or cut games from the season – or the season outright. I can’t see that drastic latter scenario happening, but it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

The next week is going to be very pivotal for the league’s decisions. They can’t keep having players and teams going dormant on such an ad-hoc basis. They’re going to have to get more of a guarantee on safety, or else risk having the season turn into a farce.

The clock is ticking.