It has been almost a year since fans have been allowed to attend Madison Square Garden due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In that time, hockey has been played in a bubble and then only divisionally, as the safety of everyone has been the top priority in an attempt to keep the sport going.
Governor Andrew Cuomo had recently announced that 10% capacity would be allowed at all state arenas, with Madison Square Garden releasing their Health & Safety Reopening FAQ to the public yesterday. While fan attendance will begin again on February 23rd for New York State, the New York Rangers first partially fan-filled game will be on the 26th against the Boston Bruins.