The Saturday night showdown between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 7 of the World Series didn’t go the way Toronto fans would’ve wanted. Three nights ago, they were just one win away from baseball’s holy grail, but last night those hopes came crashing down.
The Dodgers’ defensive deadlock quickly pushed the game to extra time, where they took the win, leaving Toronto fans heartbroken. But at the same time, the Oilers were also playing for their survival against Chicago, and captain Connor McDavid wasn’t pleased with how Rogers Place handled the turn of events.
What Did Connor McDavid Have To Say to Blue Jays Fans?
Last night, the Blue Jays seemed to finally close in on their win against the Dodgers and bring Canada’s first title since 1993 back to Toronto. But their hopes were quickly shattered as Will Smith hammered a home run in the 11th inning to make LA the first team in 25 years to repeat as champions.
But back in Edmonton, at Rogers Place, another Canadian team was fighting for a win.
The Oilers secured a hard-fought 3-2 overtime victory against the Chicago Blackhawks, climbing into the top half of the Pacific Division standings.
However, the victory came with frustration. Throughout the contest, the arena displayed Game 7 in the arena as fans cheered for the Blue Jays. McDavid, however, wasn’t exactly on board with the arrangement.
“That was really strange. Obviously, we’re all on the Jays bandwagon and everybody’s wanting them to win. And it is so disappointing, obviously, but strange, to have it on during the game; listening to the crowd was distracting for sure,” he told reporters.
McDavid had previously praised the Blue Jays’ playoff run, but screening their game during the Oilers’ contest bothered him. He expressed relief when arena staff shut off the baseball broadcast for the third period.
When reporters noted the venue was also playing audio from the baseball game, McDavid responded, “Yeah, it was bizarre. I found myself watching the Jays’ game sitting on the bench, listening to the crowd while I’m on the ice.”
Despite his frustration, McDavid acknowledged the historic significance. The Blue Jays became the first Canadian team to reach the World Series in 32 years since their 1993 championship. He expressed sympathy for their defeat.
“Obviously, we know what that feels like. The way it happened, you just completely got it for those guys. Been a fun run and a lot of fun. They’ve given Canada a lot to cheer about, and they should be very, very proud of themselves,” he said.
McDavid understands the weight of carrying a nation’s championship hopes, having reached consecutive Stanley Cup Finals with Edmonton. He also knows the disappointment that comes with falling short. This season, he’s determined to change that narrative.