The French-language election debate has been rescheduled to start at 6 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, two hours earlier than originally planned, in order to avoid a conflict with an important Montreal Canadiens game. This alteration was made to prevent the NHL playoff race from distracting viewers from the debate, which is critical for Quebec's democratic process. The Canadiens are preparing for a potentially pivotal game against the Carolina Hurricanes, with playoff implications on the line, and could secure a playoff spot before even stepping onto the ice if the Columbus Blue Jackets lose their game tonight.

Concerns were voiced by party leaders, including Jagmeet Singh of the NDP and Yves-François Blanchet of the Bloc Québécois, highlighting the disconnect between political scheduling and public interests. The decision to avoid conflicting with the Canadiens, a team with a storied history and a passionate fan base, reflects an understanding of the cultural significance of hockey in Montreal.

The upcoming televised debate for the Quebec elections faces a scheduling conflict with a possible pivotal Montreal Canadiens game, raising concerns from political leaders. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has urged organizers to consider rescheduling to avoid a clash that could diminish viewership and give off the impression that the political system is disconnected from the interests of the public. Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet supports this suggestion, recalling a similar rescheduling in 2011 to accommodate a Canadiens game. The Canadiens are aiming for playoff qualification and could secure their spot before even playing on Wednesday.

Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett has made a successful return to the ice, fully recuperated and eager to contribute. Coach Paul Maurice confirmed his readiness, stating Bennett is skating at full capacity and itching to play. Alongside him, defenseman Dmitry Kulikov also rejoined the lineup, further bolstering the team’s defensive capabilities.

Looking ahead, the Panthers are optimistic about Matthew Tkachuk's imminent comeback. Maurice indicated that this week is crucial for Tkachuk as he ramps up training. His return to practice signals a positive trajectory, but a close eye will be kept on his recovery to ensure he’s fit to play without lingering soreness. In addition, the Montreal Canadiens have Emil Heineman listed as day-to-day with an upper-body injury, while the Ottawa Senators are managing Brady Tkachuk's progress cautiously.

The excitement of the NHL playoff race intensified as the Chicago Blackhawks stunned the Montreal Canadiens in a shootout, preventing the Canadiens from securing their playoff spot. This leaves the Columbus Blue Jackets clinging to hopes of a wild-card berth, requiring two regulation wins and a Canadiens regulation loss. In contrast, the Eastern Conference's top teams, like the New Jersey Devils and Boston Bruins, prepare for their final matchups ahead of the playoffs, with the Devils eyeing a first-round series against the Carolina Hurricanes.

In the West, playoff positioning remains tight, particularly among the Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Blues, and the Calgary Flames, all vying for the last playoff spots. The Wild can clinch their playoff berth with any win against the Anaheim Ducks, while the Blues need to win against the Utah Hockey Club. Every game counts as the Flames require regulation wins to keep their playoff dreams alive.