The National Hockey League (NHL) is gearing up for a significant adjustment in its scheduling as British Columbia and Alberta transition to permanent daylight saving time this autumn. This change will eliminate the biannual clock shifts in these provinces, significantly narrowing the time difference with regions that still observe standard time. With the regular season set to commence in early October, the league must navigate potential complications that could arise from this shift, particularly concerning game times and viewer engagement.
A New Era for Timekeeping
The decision to adopt year-round daylight saving time was finalised by British Columbia last March, with Alberta following suit in July. This change means that the time gap between these western provinces and parts of Canada that continue to adjust their clocks will shrink by one hour. For example, when British Columbia and Alberta move to daylight saving time, they will be just one hour behind Eastern Time instead of the usual two or three.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the upcoming challenges, stating, “It may impact some start times in Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. But we’ll deal with it just as we deal with whatever things come our way that we don’t get to control.” The league typically releases its schedule in mid-July, and with the regular season commencing shortly thereafter, the clock is ticking for the NHL to adapt.
Impact on Game Times and Viewer Engagement
Traditionally, Eastern Canadian teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Ottawa Senators commence their home games at 7 p.m. local time. This has historically facilitated scheduling doubleheaders with teams from Alberta and British Columbia, like the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Vancouver Canucks, who would generally be two or three hours behind. With the new time alignment, the NHL may need to reassess its scheduling strategy, potentially leading to overlaps in game times or later start times in the west to accommodate broadcast requirements.
Chris Zelkovich, an instructor at the Toronto-based College of Sports Media, warned that inconvenient game timings could alienate fans. “Hockey is still a big draw, but if you throw roadblocks at people, you are going to lose audience,” he remarked. This concern is particularly relevant for teams that may not be playoff contenders, as fans might feel less inclined to adjust their schedules for games that are less impactful.
Challenges for Teams and Broadcasters
The implications of the time change extend beyond just scheduling; they also affect the overall accessibility of games for fans in western Canada. Stew MacDonald, president and chief revenue officer of the Edmonton Oilers, expressed concerns about later start times, stating, “Ensuring hockey games remain accessible for fans in Oil Country is our priority. Any shift that results in later game start times is a concern — particularly as it creates challenges for families and young fans attending games or watching live broadcasts.”
While the Calgary Flames opted not to comment, the Vancouver Canucks did not respond to inquiries regarding the potential scheduling changes. Broadcasters also find themselves in a precarious position. A spokesperson for Sportsnet noted that the league ultimately sets the schedule and start times, while TSN offered no additional commentary on the matter.
Broader Implications for the NHL and Other Leagues
Experts suggest that while the time change might not fundamentally alter the NHL’s business model, it does present additional logistical challenges for broadcasters and teams alike. Mike Naraine, an associate sport management professor at Brock University, commented, “It’s not a problem, but just another thing that they just work through.” As the NHL navigates this new landscape, it will be interesting to see how other leagues, such as the Canadian Football League (CFL), which also utilises doubleheaders, adapt to the changing dynamics.
Why it Matters
The transition to permanent daylight saving time in British Columbia and Alberta represents more than just a change in clocks; it signifies a shift in how sports leagues must adapt to the evolving needs of their fans. As the NHL prepares for the 2026-27 season, the way it handles scheduling could have lasting effects on viewer engagement, attendance, and ultimately the league’s bottom line. For hockey fans, this change could mean rethinking how they watch and enjoy the sport they love, making it crucial for the NHL to find solutions that prioritise accessibility and convenience.
