NHL Addresses Allegations Regarding Rigged Games In Favour Of Toronto

Amid claims from fans that the schedule seemed unfair and the series might be rigged in favor of the Maple Leafs, Twitter user @PragueSenator highlighted the perceived imbalance:

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman weighed in, explaining that the NHL has to compensate a team that loses a home game, making it more feasible to cut a check for Ottawa instead of Toronto.

Given the Maple Leafs' status as one of the most valuable franchises, it makes sense that it would be simpler to make a deal with Ottawa. This also clarifies why the league opted not to give the Leafs a home game, considering Ottawa's games don't always sell out, and the lower ticket values make cutting that check much more straightforward.

Source: Bladeofsteel