Welcome Back: Three Players Out of COVID-19 Protocol

Ahead of the New York Islanders’ contest against the Buffalo Sabres, three players were activated out of COVID-19 protocol. Those players were Cal Clutterbuck, Matt Martin, and Robin Salo.

Clutterbuck, Martin and Salo joined the #Isles for morning skate. pic.twitter.com/ARPliy04wl

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) December 30, 2021

Martin and Salo were placed in COVID-19 protocol before the Holiday break and the plan was for them to be activated this past Wednesday.

Clutterbuck entered COVID-19 protocol, along with Oliver Wahlstrom, Zach Parise, and Anthony Beauvillier on Sunday, Dec. 26. He is the only one that has officially cleared protocol from that day of testing.

Brock Nelson, who was placed in protocol on Tuesday, Dec. 28, was not on the ice Thursday morning.

With the adjusted COVID-19 protocol procedures in the NHL due to the latest recommended CDC guidelines, asymptomatic players can return from isolation following five days.

That player must test negative (PCR) to return to team facilities.

Just because these three players were back on the ice for practice does not mean they are game-ready.

Forward Ross Johnston, a bottom-six forward, spoke to the media following morning skate. That usually is a good indicator that he is in the lineup so the question becomes where he slots in. Is it his usual spot on the fourth line or somewhere else?

We will find out if these said players are in the lineup tonight when warmups begin Thursday night ahead of their matchup with Buffalo.