Multiple NHL teams confirm they will play in empty arenas

As both fear and precaution continue to grow in wake of the spreading Coronavirus, we've also seen a growth in efforts to limit human contact in hopes of containing the virus. These efforts have extended into the sports world, with limitations being placed in regards to attendance of sporting events.

There have been talks in the passing days of teams potentially playing to empty stadiums, in hopes to limit the spread of the virus.

Now, as of Wednesday, multiple National Hockey League teams have confirmed they will play their home games behind closed doors.

After mandates in their respective counties, both the San Jose Sharks and Columbus Blue Jackets will host games through March with only home and visiting team personnel, as well as broadcasting, media, officiating and anybody deemed ‘necessary.'

An update from the #SJSharks on events scheduled at @SAPCenter through April 1.https://t.co/cnTVQRArCO— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 11, 2020

Full #CBJ statement on the upcoming home game schedule. pic.twitter.com/krGEcEnd76— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) March 11, 2020

San Jose is set to host the Montreal Canadiens (March 19th), Boston Bruins (March 21st), and Arizona Coyotes (March 29th) during the time set for the mass gathering band set in place by Santa Clara County.

The Blue Jackets, who are set to host four more games through the regular season, at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, will host the Nashville Predators (March 14th), Washington Capitals (March 19th), New York Islanders (March 30th, and the Tampa Bay Lighting (April 2nd), behind closed doors.

San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane commented on the idea of playing in an empty arena;

.@SanJoseSharks players Joe Thornton and Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) weigh in on the possibility of playing to empty arenas.

Full story by @JoshDubowAP: https://t.co/uXCAxFAk29 pic.twitter.com/Fh5MVJG506— AP Sports (@AP_Sports) March 10, 2020

As concern of the virus continues to spread, it increases the likelihood that more events welcoming large groups of people may meet a similar fate, resulting in more sporting events being cancelled or played to empty arenas.

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