San Jose Sharks To Play Before Empty Arena, If They Play At All

SAN JOSE, CA — The San Jose Sharks on Wednesday afternoon announced that their next three scheduled home games will be played at SAP Center, but that the arena will be closed to the general public.

The announcement came on a day in which the reality of a global pandemic triggered a cascade of jaw-dropping announcements that rocked the sports world.

The NHL issued a cryptic statement on Wednesday night that called into question the future of its season, let alone three Sharks games at SAP Center.

The NHL’s statement followed the NBA’s decision to suspend its season indefinitely.

"The National Hockey League is aware of the NBA's decision tonight to indefinitely suspend its season due to a player testing positive for the coronavirus," the League said in a statement.

"The NHL is continuing to consult with medical experts and is evaluating the options. We expect to have a further update tomorrow."

The Sharks’ announcement came two days after Santa Clara County issued a three-week ban on mass gatherings in an effort to slow the COVID-19 outbreak.

Santa Clara County on Wednesday night announced three new coronavirus cases, bringing its total to 48.

Three of the Sharks’ five remaining home games fall within the three-week period the county has banned mass gatherings. Their next scheduled home game is on March 19 against the Montreal Canadiens.

“The safety of our fans, guests and partners is of the utmost importance,” the team said in a statement.

“Sharks Sports & Entertainment and SAP Center management greatly appreciate your understanding during this unprecedented time."