NHL makes major decision that will impact the Stanley Cup Playoffs

According to an announcement from the league, the playoffs will be slated to start on Saturday, April 20th instead of its original Monday, April 22nd start date.

A subtle yet strategic approach by the NHL to move the starting date to a Saturday instead of Monday would mean the first two days of the playoffs fall on the weekend, which would likely lead to a massive turnout to start the playoffs.

One of the best things about this change is that fans of Western Conference teams living in the Eastern time zone are more likely to stay up late to watch the Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks or any other Western team who may have a later start. This will, in turn, drive up the ratings for the start of the playoffs.

Meanwhile, back in Eastern Canada, this will also give the league the opportunity to begin the playoffs on Hockey Night in Canada, which will more than likely feature the Leafs headlining the program, which would certainly be a huge draw in Canada, especially if they draw their archrivals, the Boston Bruins, in round 1.

With many teams battling it out for position in the standings for the coveted home ice advantage, this time of the year makes for an exciting final stretch until the playoffs kick off.