NHL may make controversial choice for Oilers Canucks game 6 start time

If the Carolina Hurricanes are able to win tonight and force a game 7 against the Rangers, their final game would be scheduled for this Saturday at 6:00 MT. According to Irfaan Gaffar, a sports reporter with the Fourth Period, this may force the Oilers and Canucks to play a day game.

It seems the NHL has given the prime time priority to the Rangers and Hurricanes Game 7 at 6:00 MT. Usually wanting at least a three hour difference between game times, that would leave the Oilers with a 3:00 MT or a 9:00 MT start time. Given the time difference with the East, it feel very unlikely the NHL will take the later option, meaning the Oilers will likely play a day game instead. Given the wording including national broadcast information being made available later would allow the NHL time to prepare if the Hurricanes force game 7.

It's slightly disappointing for Oilers fans, who have now yet to have a Saturday night home game through this year's playoffs. Not only have Oilers fans not had a prime night out to watch the team at home, but the NHL still hasn't found a way to get the Connor McDavid, the best player in the league, in front of the biggest television audience possible. It may be tough for local fans, but silver lining of a day game may be that more people than ever can watch the Edmonton Oilers in the playoffs.