San Jose Sharks defenseman Erik Karlsson appeared pessimistic about the possibility of making it to the Beijing Olympics in 2022, in an interview with reporters on Wednesday. Karlsson has raised concerns about the potential three to five week quarantine if he tests positive for COVID-19 at the Games.

“Most of the issues are common knowledge. If that’s the way it’s going to be, I don’t think it’s very feasible for guys to take that risk. That’s my personal opinion,” Karlsson said.

TSN’s Chris Johnston recently released COVID-19 guidelines for positive Olympic Games testing by the International Olympic Committee. According to the reported guidelines, if a player is confirmed positive, they must undergo two negative tests within 24 hours. Otherwise, the quarantine period could last three to five weeks.

Karlsson, who would play for the Sweden team, said he believed others were having similar thoughts, although he did not name names.

“Me, having a family, I cannot take this risk” he said. “There are a lot of other people out there who probably feel the same way even though I haven’t talked to too many guys.”

Karlsson’s comments follow reigning NHL Hart Trophy winner Connor McDavid expressing concern about going to the Olympics. Golden Knights defenseman Alex Pietrangelo, who was previously named to Team Canada, has said he needed more clarity, citing family concerns about being placed in a long quarantine.

Swedish goalkeeper Robin Lehner has already took his name without consideration, citing mental health issues.

athleticism Pierre LeBrun reported the NHLPA will have a call with the players regarding the Olympics on Wednesday evening.

Karlsson previously played for Sweden in better versus better tournaments at the Sochi 2014 Olympics and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

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(Photo: Ben Jackson / NHLI via Getty Images)