After two explosions rocked the Boston Marathon on Monday, the NHL and NBA decided to cancel games for both of Boston’s professional games scheduled for the evening.
The NHL announced that the Bruins game schedule Monday at 7 pm against the Ottawa Senators was canceled, while the NBA called off the Celtics 8 pm contest against the Indiana Pacers. The canceled games were preceded earlier in the day by the Boston Red Sox, who by tradition play at 11 am on the day of the marathon, Patriot Day.
There is no word on whether the Bruins game will be re-scheduled. The NBA contest would have no bearing on the playoff standings, as the Pacers are locked into the No. 3 seed and the Celtics locked at No. 7.
The explosions took place at the finish line at the Boston Marathon , and so far have been blamed for 4 deaths and more than 100 injuries.
The Boston Marathon explosions occurred nearly simultaneously and about 100 yards apart, shattering windows, knocking down spectators, and tearing limbs off of those near the blast.
Players and officials from both teams turned their attention to victims of the Boston Marathon explosions.
“After consultation with city, state and NHL officials we collectively made the decision to postpone tonight’s game,” said Bruins team president Cam Neely. “Public safety personnel from the city and state are still gathering information regarding today’s events and it is vital they have all resources available for their investigation. The thoughts and prayers of everyone in the Bruins organization are with the city of Boston and all those affected by today’s tragedy.”
The NHL also took extra precautions at its other contests after the explosions in Boston .
“We have communicated with each of the buildings in which games are being played tonight and appropriate steps are being taken to ensure that the buildings are secure,” said Bill Daly, the NHL’s deputy commissioner.
NBA officials also noted that they were taking precautions after the Boston Marathon explosions.
