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    Lakers, Clippers Announce Fans Will Return to Staples Center Beginning April 15

    Blake SchusterContributor IApril 2, 2021

    LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 29: View of the Los Angeles Lakers logo on the floor of the UCLA Health Training Center, their training faculity, on May 29, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
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    The Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers will begin welcoming a limited amount of fans back to Staples Center later this month, the teams announced on Friday. 

    Bleacher Report @BleacherReport

    The Lakers and Clippers announce a limited number of fans will be able to attend games at Staples Center later this month after new guidelines were set in California.<br><br>Lakers: April 15 vs. Celtics<br><br>Clippers: April 18 vs. Timberwolves pic.twitter.com/ws2cuoSznP

    After playing without any spectators since last March, the reigning champions will have fans in seats starting with a home game against the Boston Celtics on April 15. The Clippers will do the same a few days later on April 18 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

    Both title contenders expect to keep fans in the building throughout their respective postseason runs. 

    Los Angeles Lakers @Lakers

    Lakers Statement Regarding State Guidelines for Indoor Arenas. pic.twitter.com/zzoJ4AQkie

    LA Clippers @LAClippers

    Can't wait to see you, #ClipperNation pic.twitter.com/6PtowfQu56

    For the Lakers, its an opportunity to begin celebrating last year's NBA title in earnest after the coronavirus pandemic forced the team to scrap any plans for a championship parade or banner raising ceremony after defeating the Miami Heat in the Finals last summer. 

    It's unclear how many fans will be able to purchase tickets or what a timeline looks like to increase capacity. 

    Some teams across the league, including the Celtics and Denver Nuggets, also began allowing fans to return in recent weeks. 

    Major League Baseball expects the majority of its stadiums to seat fans at varying capacity levels this season with the Texas Rangers offering full capacity for its season opener. 

    Lakers, Clippers Announce Fans Will Return to Staples Center Beginning April 15
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    In Southern California, the Lakers and Clippers continue taking things slowly.

    Still, it's a much-needed step in a positive direction for Los Angeles basketball fans that's sure to get players on both teams just as hyped as those in the stands.