Celtics, Bruins can welcome fans back March 22

Per the Associated Press (h/t NBA.com), Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker announced on Thursday that large indoor and outdoor venues, such as sports arenas and ballparks, can welcome fans up to 12% of their capacities beginning March 22. 

According to estimates shared by Logan Mullen of NESN, the Boston Celtics can permit 2,298 fans, while that number drops to 2,142 for Boston Bruins games. When the MLB season gets underway, the Boston Red Sox can allow 4,530 spectators to Fenway Park. The New England Revolution can have 7,905 fans when the Major League Soccer campaign begins in April. 

"Opening Day is in our near future," Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said during a news conference. 

The New England Patriots were one NFL franchise that couldn't welcome fans during the 2020 season, but they recently sent a letter to season-ticket holders claiming they hope to fill Gillette Stadium "at full capacity" this fall. Via a statement shared by NESN's Zack Cox, the Patriots said on Thursday that CIC Health is administering more than 5,000 COVID-19 vaccinations daily at Gillette Stadium. 

On Monday, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced that sports venues in the state with capacities over 5,000 spectators could start allowing small percentages of fans beginning March 1.