Blue Jays' Playoff Run Forces Scheduling Change for Maple Leafs Vs. Red Wings Game

The NHL has made an important change regarding Monday afternoon's contest between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings, as the two divisional rivals will now play at 2:00 PM (EST).

The game was originally scheduled to be played at 4:00 PM (EST), however, it seems like the NHL wants to give Toronto fans a full day of sports with the Toronto Blue Jays playing Game 2 of the ALCS later that day, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

Johnston further adds that Leafs fans are invited to stay even after the game concludes to watch the Blue Jays game at Scotiabank Arena once again.

MLSE CEO Keith Pelley added to the announcement and excitement as he wants to make sure the Maple Leafs do whatever they can to help support the Blue Jays on their postseason run.

It's a very interesting change for a variety of reasons, but perhaps more so because this is the first game on Amazon Prime's Monday Night Hockey schedule. However, they certainly don't want to clash with the bigger ticket that is playoff baseball right now.

The schedule for the Blue Jays is not officially released due to the other American League Division series not having been completed yet. Seattle and Detroit face off in a do-or-die Game 5 tonight, which will then allow the MLB to set their schedule further.

Nevertheless Game 1 is set for 8:03 PM (EST) on Sunday and Game 2 is expected to be played later in the day on Monday, both in Toronto at the Rogers Centre.

It's a great move for the city as the fans of both the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays can convene together on what is expected to be a very exciting day for Toronto sports.