NHL announces scheduling for Game 5 of Oilers playoffs vs Kings

When the full scheduled dates were released for the Oilers series, game times weren't included for Games 5 through 7 - to be later determined by the NHL.

NHL insiders have confirmed that Game 5 is now slated for an 8PM start time, and also includes a wrinkle that will likely affect start times for the rest of the series.

Tonight's Oilers game is actually a refreshingly early start for a playoff game, with a rare start at 7:30. However, it's likely just a one-off for this series.

After the Oilers series shifts back to Los Angeles for Game 5 on Tuesday, Edmonton's series will be synched up with the Toronto Maple Leafs' schedule. The Oilers will not have one three day break this series.

TV broadcasters always want to allow room for viewers to watch both games, allowing a full 3 hour slow for Toronto's games beginning at 5:00. With the Oilers and Leafs series now on the same day, the Oilers are likely looking at a lot more 8:00PM starts.

It's always a tough situation that Edmonton gets the short end of the stick being on MT. Fans in Edmonton would surely rather a 7:00 start, and even eastern fans would love to see McDavid and the Oilers play earlier - but the late start times will continue to be an inconvenience for Oilers fans. Not that it matters to any hardcore fans to stay up an extra hour anyway!