Leafs, Raptors Move Start Times to Avoid Conflict With Blue Jays’ World Series Games
SLUG: leafs-raptors-adjust-start-times-for-world-series
The Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors will begin several upcoming contests earlier than originally scheduled so fans can watch the Blue Jays’ World Series appearances without overlapping events, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) announced Thursday.
MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley said coordinating the changes allows “one of the most passionate fan bases anywhere” to share a historic moment for the city and the country.
Revised schedules
Rogers Centre hosts World Series Games 1 and 2 on Friday and Saturday, both set for 8 p.m. ET. To clear the way:
- The Raptors’ home opener against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday shifts from 7:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- The Maple Leafs’ matchup with the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday moves from 7 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Toronto’s hockey game against the Calgary Flames next Tuesday now starts at 6 p.m.
- The Raptors’ Oct. 29 meeting with the Houston Rockets will begin at 6:30 p.m.
World Series Games 3–5 are slated for Monday, Tuesday and Oct. 19.
Pelley noted that adjusting multiple NHL and NBA schedules required cooperation from leagues, teams, broadcasters, coaches and players. After each hockey and basketball game, Scotiabank Arena will show the Blue Jays’ World Series action on its main videoboard, giving fans a chance to stay in their seats and follow the baseball series.
Source: ESPN
