Canucks announce their home opener will be at full capacity

After a change in provincial legislation Tuesday, the Vancouver Canucks announced via Twitter that their home opener on Oct. 26 against the Minnesota Wild will be held with 100% fan capacity in the stands.

After a six-game road trip to start the season (which still has three games remaining, including Tuesday’s matchup against Buffalo), the Canucks will return home to play in front of fans for the first time in more than a year and a half. Vancouver currently sits with a 1-1-1 record, its single win coming in the form of a 5-4 shootout victory against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Before Tuesday, the Canucks remained the only NHL team that did not permit full capacity at games. Luckily for the Canucks, restrictions were lifted in advance of their home opener.

A statement released by Canucks Sports and Entertainment mentions the following:

“Great news today from the Provincial Health Officer and the Province of BC,” said Michael Doyle, President, Canucks Sports & Entertainment, Business Operations. “As last season reminded us, there’s nothing like the energy and excitement that fans bring to Canucks games and live events. We’re thrilled to again be able to operate at full capacity at Rogers Arena. The Province of BC and our local health authorities have been strong partners through the pandemic, and we’ll continue to follow their vaccination guidelines to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Vancouver’s home opener begins a seven-game homestand as the Canucks will try to gain traction in the Pacific Division standings.