via Sportsnet,

As the NHL approaches its first full 82-campaign since the pandemic began, deputy commissioner Billy Daly is confident that the majority of the players will be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Speaking to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff at the NHL's media day in Chicago, Daly said the league expects "98 per cent" of players will be vaccinated and only "10-15 players" are expected to be unvaccinated.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported earlier this month that the NHL and NHLPA had agreed to a new set of COVID-19 protocols that lessen the burden on those who are fully vaccinated.

The most significant addition is a mechanism that allows teams to suspend players without pay for "unable to participate in club activities" as a result of being unvaccinated. Furthermore, fully vaccinated players will need to pass COVID-19 tests every 72 hours while unvaccinated players will be tested every day.