Why so long before the Stanley Cup finals?

Question

Anyone else wonder why didn't they start earlier since both the West and East finals were finished a couple of days ago? Now they start on the weekend and the games in Detroit are scheduled for the same night, pretty much the same time as the Pistons games.

Answer 1

They just want Detroit to enjoy thier accomplishments for a while because, as of Saturday the winning for Detroit is over!!! GO Pens!!!!!!

Answer 2

idkk i was wondering the same thing, i would have thought they would have at least started by tomorrow at the latest.

Answer 3

SO the players can rest up for the big game(s).

Answer 4

Because the NHL wants to be sure that Chelios has his Geritol prescription filled before the Cup Finals begin.

Answer 5

NBC and CBC wanted to get 2 games on Saturdays when they get the most viewers. This guarantees that even if there is a sweep there are 2 Saturday games. Same thing if it goes to 7 - the last game will be on a Saturday.

Answer 6

Three reasons: Money, money, and money. They want to start the series on a Saturday because a larger audience will be viewing.

The Penguins and Red Wings haven't faced each other all year. That equals unknown, anticipation, and suspense. It's very much like an old baseball World Series, where two teams didn't "know" each other. People from both cities are eagerly anticipating it, and would like it to start sooner.

But the dollar rules. More people from the United States and Canada will be watching Saturday.

Answer 7

I heard NHL VP Bill Daly on the radio yesterday.  The NHL made the NBA aware of it's plans, and the NBA had the option of playing the Western Conference games on the days the Red Wings were playing but decided against it.

As for the dates the NHL chose, they are set to appease Versus and NBC.  The fans don't matter.  Only $$$$$ talk.

Answer 8

TV contracts and building availability are the reason. Teams have to make use of buildings in the off season so they book the building to cover themselves just in case the don't make the playoffs. TV networks want prime time slots with no conflicting programming to maximize there investment.

Answer 9

Contractual obligations and the desire for maximum exposure.

Answer 10

they want to p**s you off so that you would ask this question

Answer 11

Because they still might need to review some more of the goals scored on turco because he might complain.

GOOO WINGS!!

crosby can kiss my ***

Answer 12

try playing another series after what these teams have been through, over 100 games is a lot to play in a year they need rest and those were the preset times for their tv contracts, the last game 7 was set for today anyway so it wouldve been around the same time

Answer 13

The teams need some time to rest and reorganize so they can put out 100% of their performance.