The OHL Has Announced Some Schedule Changes Due To The Solar Eclipse

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Hunter Bowman
April 3, 2024 (5:45 PM)

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The Ontario Hockey League has made a surprising adjustment to its playoff calendar, attributing the shift to an extraordinary natural phenomenon: a solar eclipse.

This adjustment affects the intense playoff battle between the Erie Otters and the Kitchener Rangers, with the Rangers currently edging out a 2-1 series lead.

Due to the eclipse, anticipated to attract a significant number of spectators to Niagara Falls, creating potential travel disruptions, the league has decided to push the scheduled games to April 9th and 10th. This decision underscores the unique intersection of sports scheduling and natural events, ensuring teams and fans face minimal travel hassles.

«The Ontario Hockey League today announced two scheduling changes affecting potential sixth and seventh games between the Kitchener Rangers and Erie Otters should their ongoing first round playoff series require them as necessary.

In an effort to avoid logistical challenges affecting travel presented by the upcoming total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th, the League has announced that potential Games 6 and 7 of the series will be re-assigned from their originally scheduled dates of Monday, April 8th and Tuesday, April 9th to the following dates:

Game 6, if necessary, is rescheduled for Tuesday, April 9th at 7:00pm in Erie
Game 7, if necessary, is rescheduled for Wednesday, April 10th at 8:00pm in Kitchener" The OHL said.

Both teams boast impressive talent, including Filip Mesar, a first-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens playing for Kitchener, and Malcolm Spence, a highly-touted prospect for the 2025 draft, suiting up for Erie. Their performances are eagerly awaited as the series progresses.

Originally, the eclipse was not considered a factor that could lead to scheduling changes. However, the influx of eclipse viewers to Niagara Falls has prompted logistical concerns, necessitating this unusual but necessary adjustment by the OHL.

The Kitchener Rangers, entering the series as favorites, aim to extend their lead in the adjusted schedule, adding another layer of intrigue to this playoff series.

Source: Hockeypatrol
OHL announces last-minute scheduling changes due to solar eclipse