The Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets are almost back to “normal.”
Yes, there are still COVID-19 specific requirements in place for each respective team, but we’re so close.
After the last year, it’s almost cathartic.
Ball arena capacity and COVID-19 requirements
At least for now, each team has different rules in place for fan capacity at Ball Arena.
The Avalanche are still allowed 10,500 fans for the remainder of their second-round series with the Las Vegas Golden Knights. The organization was granted that request by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) at the end of May. Fans are still required to wear masks over the age of 2. Fans over the age of 18 are also required to agree to and sign a COVID-19 spectator waiver upon entry to the arena.
As the arena states on its website, all policies and procedures must be adhered to regardless of a person’s vaccination process.
As for the Nuggets, when they return to Ball Arena on Friday for Game 3 against the Phoenix Suns, you’ll see near full capacity. The venue will allow 18,300 fans (91% of basketball capacity). CDPHE and the state made that announcement last week.
Fans over the age of 2 are still required to wear masks and fans will still be required to complete a health assessment form before entering the arena. So it’s not back to normal just yet for Mile High Basketball fans.
If the Avalanche are able to regain control of their series against Las Vegas and advance to the next round of the playoffs, they’re allowed to progress to the next attendance stage as well. Colorado has been approved for near full capacity with 17,400 fans (95% of hockey capacity).
At least for the remainder of the playoffs for both teams, Ball Arena will not be back at full capacity due to NBA and NHL safety restrictions.
Mobile tickets for the Avs and Nuggets
If you purchase tickets to either the Avs or Nuggets, they’re all digital.
As it says on Ticketmaster when you go to purchase tickets, “In an effort to ensure a ticketing experience that is more convenient, safe and secure for all Avalanche fans, guests must present a digital ticket on a smartphone for game entry. Screenshots and print outs will not be accepted.”
Colorado sports betting benefits from playoff runs
Of course, the fact that two Colorado teams are in the second round of their respective playoffs also impacts Colorado online sports betting. Since the games are broadcast on national TV now, games no longer face blackouts. So fans who have Comcast or DISH can finally watch the games. In the process, they can live bet the Avs and Nuggets now, too.
Having to live bet both hockey and basketball via the radio or following online doesn’t seem like a horrible experience.
As Matt Bell, Kroenke Sports and Entertainment vice president of venue booking, said in a release:
“We are thrilled to bring Ball Arena back to near full capacity for future playoff series. We want to thank Governor Jared Polis and Mayor Michael Hancock and their teams along with CDPHE, DDPHE, NHL and NBA for all of their tireless efforts to keep our community safe and for all of their assistance to help us ensure that the health, safety and wellness of our fans, frontline workers, staff and athletes was always the top priority with every decision that was made every step of the way.”
