Alberta’s decision to adopt permanent daylight time is shaking up the NHL schedule for teams like the Calgary Flames and their fans. With some games starting as late as 9 p.m., players and supporters are adjusting to the new timing, creating both challenges and excitement as they navigate the changes.
Flames captain Mikael Backlund acknowledges the need for preparation, stating, “Professional athletes have to adapt to the circumstances and get ready. There’s always caffeine to help us out.” The late game starts have forced some players, like forward Ryan Strome, to make adjustments in their family routines, as their children are unable to attend the games due to the late hour.
The shift in Alberta’s time practices, also followed by British Columbia and Manitoba, has added complexity to the NHL schedule, particularly impacting broadcast schedules and game times for Western Canadian teams. Flames’ CEO Robert Hayes expressed the team’s focus on what they can control amid these changes, emphasizing the need to adapt to the situation.
While facing a mix of game start times, including earlier afternoon games, the Flames are gearing up for a varied season. The upcoming 9 p.m. games at the Saddledome promise a unique atmosphere for fans, with hopes of creating an enhanced experience for Saturday night matchups.
In Edmonton, the Oilers are also bracing for late game starts, with players like Jake Walman and Trent Frederic adjusting their routines to cope with the late-night matches. Manitoba’s decision to stick to daylight time permanently has led to schedule tweaks for the Winnipeg Jets, presenting a new set of challenges for players and fans alike.
The NHL teams on the West Coast, such as the Vancouver Canucks, are also experiencing changes in start times, creating a dynamic season ahead. Despite the adjustments, players like Canucks winger Brendan Gallagher remain focused on their game and routines, ready to tackle the challenges brought by the updated schedule.
