NHL May 'Reconsider' Sending Players to Winter Olympics

The NHL may “reconsider” sending hockey players to the Winter Olympics if a “significant” occurrence occurs before the Games begin. 

“As of now, we do not doubt that all necessary steps are being taken by the Sochi Organizing Committee, the Russian government and the IOC to ensure the safety of the athletes and guests in Sochi,”  NHL deputy Commissioner Bill Daly told the The Associated Press on Monday. “Obviously, if something significant were to transpire between now and February 9 that causes us to question that conclusion, we will re-evaluate. I don’t expect that that will become necessary.”

NHL Players’ Association spokesman Jonathan Weatherdon said that the NHLPA “continues to be in contact with Olympic and security officials regarding plans for the Olympic Games in Sochi, and will work closely with all concerned to monitor matters in advance of and during the Games.”

This weekend House Homeland Security Chair Rep. Mike McCaul (R-TX) said the terror threat at the Sochi Games was the greatest he has ever seen and was open to canceling the games.