A SHL semifinal hockey match between Skellefteå and Luleå in Skellefteå, Sweden, is scheduled to start at 20:00 on Thursday, an hour later than usual evening matches. This follows a record-long first semifinal between the teams that ended just before midnight on Tuesday, lasting 122 minutes and 18 seconds, reportedly the longest match ever played in SHL and Elitserien history. According to SHL sport chief Johan Hemlin, the later start time is primarily to allow the match to be broadcast on TV4, a nationwide channel, to reach a broader audience and attract new viewers.
Hemlin stated that the decision involves trade-offs, as it means fans will get home later and could complicate team travel, but SHL has reduced the number of matches starting at 20:00 compared to previous seasons. He noted that if Thursday's match also goes into overtime, it could result in an even later night for hockey fans.
the later start time is primarily to allow the match to be broadcast on TV4, a nationwide channel, to reach a broader audience and attract new viewers
the decision involves trade-offs, as it means fans will get home later and could complicate team travel
SHL has reduced the number of matches starting at 20:00 compared to previous seasons
if Thursday's match also goes into overtime, it could result in an even later night for hockey fans