Gatineau Watch Party for Canadiens-Hurricanes Game Cancelled

Organizers cancelled a planned large-screen broadcast of the Montreal Canadiens playoff game at the Slush Puppie Centre in Gatineau after failing to obtain required NHL authorization. The event was scheduled for Saturday at the 4,000-seat venue and had been organized by Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy in collaboration with Festival Outaouais en fête and Vision Multisports Outaouais.

Organizers had obtained broadcasting rights from TVA Sports, the French-language rights holder for NHL playoffs. The NHL later informed organizers that the event lacked necessary authorization due to territorial rights held by the Ottawa Senators. A spokesperson for the NHL stated that the planned event organized by an independent promoter never received the required authorization for large showings of league games.

Wassim Aboutanos, one of the event organizers, said the group was disappointed that the initiative could not move forward. Julie Moffatt, president and CEO of Les Grands Feux, said discussions are ongoing with the NHL, TVA Sports, and the Ottawa Senators to explore other collaboration options.

A Senators spokesperson told Radio-Canada that the team had very little involvement in the decision. Fans who purchased tickets will be contacted by Vision Multisports Outaouais regarding refunds. The Montreal Canadiens open their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday.