Toronto Maple Leafs and Raptors change game times to avoid World Series clash
The Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors might be playing games this week, but it’s hardly likely that anything they do will be leading off the nightly TV highlight shows.
Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve probably heard that the Toronto Blue Jays are heading to the World Series, beginning Friday at the Rogers Centre.
And with the Raptors and Leafs having a few home games clashing with the Jays playing the Los Angeles Dodgers, the NBA and NHL teams have opted to move the start time of a combined four games over the next two weeks up earlier.
“Toronto sports fans are undeniably some of the most passionate fans in the world, and we are proud to have the city’s teams come together and give these fans an opportunity to experience a significant moment in our city’s and nation’s history,” said Keith Pelley, president and CEO of MLSE.
All four games will also serve as an impromptu watch party for the fans in attendance, as the Scotiabank Arena jumbotron will play the World Series games following the conclusion of the Leafs and Raptors games.
Two Raptors games on Oct. 24 and 29 have been moved to 6:30 p.m. start times, while Leafs games on Oct. 25 and 28 have been moved to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., respectively. Meanwhile, up to seven World Series games will be played, all of which begin at 8 p.m. ET. Toronto’s four home games are scheduled for Oct. 24, 25, 31, and Nov. 1.
“Each of these game time changes are quite complicated and represent the cooperation of many stakeholders, including the respective leagues, coaches and players of the Leafs, Raptors and opposing teams and broadcasters,” Pelley added. “We are grateful to them all for their assistance as we work to make this a very special moment for Toronto fans as we come together to support the Blue Jays.”
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