CBC
Canadian NHL teams exploring hosting fans, but no plans as of yet
At least five of Canada’s NHL teams have talked with their provincial government about fans returning to their buildings before the current season ends, but one infectious disease expert thinks it makes more sense to wait until the fall. The Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, Montreal Canadiens and Winnipeg Jets all say they have explored the possibility of putting some fans back in the stands. Canadian teams have played in empty buildings since March 12, 2020, due to concerns about COVID-19. “We have had preliminary conversations with local authorities about a plan to host some fans at Rogers Arena this year, however nothing is imminent,” said a statement from Canucks Sports and Entertainment. “Any plans to welcome fans back this year will be with the approval and guidance of public health officials. We expect discussions to continue in the near future.” Dr. Zain Chagla, an infectious disease physician for St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, Ont., pointed to rising COVID-19 cases in several provinces. “I mean Montreal, Winnipeg, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver are all not in great places,” he said. “There is case growth in every single one of these cities. It’s hard to justify putting a bunch of people in a single place.” Chagla said October may be a better time for fans to return as more people will have been vaccinated. “I think you’re getting closer to normal by the fall,”…
