Lakers to play 2020-21 season without fans at Staples Center 'until further notice'
With the 2020-21 NBA season fast approaching, the Los Angeles Lakers have announced they will play with no fans in Staples Center “until further notice.”
The team announced the decision on Wednesday.
This just in from the Lakers... pic.twitter.com/VW8ae0Xd9t
— Melissa Rohlin (@melissarohlin) November 12, 2020
It stands to reason the Los Angeles Clippers, the Lakers’ co-tenant at Staples Center, will also not have fans under the same guidelines the Lakers are following.
The 2020-21 season is officially set to begin on Dec. 22, when the defending champions will likely kick off their season in Los Angeles.
How many NBA teams will allow fans this season?
After finishing out last season in the Disney World bubble, it seems clear NBA commissioner Adam Silver wants at least some fans attending games next season with billions of dollars in gameday revenue on the line.
The question will be which teams open their doors, and how many fans are allowed inside. With California still not allowing spectators at indoor sports gatherings, odds of even a partially occupied Staples Center were slim.
For the teams that do allow fans in, they will be required to follow some stringent protocols to keep them safe.
All fans are required to wear masks (above age of 2), socially distance, undergo symptom surveys. Food and beverage are not allowed for those within 30 feet of court. Teams would have option to install a plexiglass behind benches. https://t.co/Rr0YMpebdb
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 11, 2020
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