Public health rejects Habs' proposal to increase Bell Centre capacity

There won't be a half-full Bell Centre for the Stanley Cup Final.

Quebec Public Health authorities rejected on Wednesday the Montreal Canadiens' proposal to increase capacity to 50% (10,500) for Games 3 and 4, as well as a potential Game 6, according to The Associated Press' Stephen Whyno.

The Habs are permitted to allow only 3,500 fans, the same number they hosted for Round 3 against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper actually advocated for an increase in capacity.

"This game was meant to be played in front of fans," he said after his team punched its ticket to the Stanley Cup Final.

The Bolts filled Amalie Arena with 18,600 fans for Game 2 on Wednesday.