Following a PWHL playoff game postponement due to illness concerns, no new players have shown symptoms the day after the incident. The decisive semifinal Game 5 between the Montreal Victoire and Minnesota Frost was rescheduled and will now take place at Place Bell on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET. The victor will advance to face the Ottawa Charge in the Walter Cup final.
According to PWHL spokesperson Paul Krotz, there have been no new symptoms reported post postponement, and individuals previously affected are showing signs of improvement. Additionally, extensive cleaning and disinfection measures have been implemented as a precautionary measure.
The league has not disclosed the specific illness but clarified that it is not consistent with the hantavirus. The illness seems to be confined to the Victoire team, as all Frost players are reportedly healthy and preparing for the rescheduled game.
The decision to delay the game on Monday was made after an assessment by the PWHL’s medical team, led by Dr. Tina Atkinson, prioritizing player safety. The league ensured both teams would have sufficient and healthy rosters available for the rescheduled match.
The schedule change means the Victoire will play simultaneously with the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday. The Canadiens are set to face the Buffalo Sabres for Game 4 of the NHL playoff series at the Bell Centre. The postponement also caused uncertainty for the Ottawa Charge, who adjusted their travel plans based on the outcome of the rescheduled game.
Charge General Manager Mike Hirshfeld expressed readiness for the upcoming series, emphasizing the competitiveness of both Montreal and Minnesota teams. The Charge traveled to Montreal on Tuesday afternoon and will continue preparations based on the results of the rescheduled game.