Oilers smash world record for largest 50/50 pot before Game 3

Edmonton Oilers fans are channeling their excitement for hockey's return to help out those who need it most.

The Oilers sold out their virtual 50/50 raffle hours before their 10:30 p.m. MT deadline, resulting in a world record-setting pot of more than $2.5 million Wednesday.

The Oilers have been conducting raffles in conjunction with their games against the Chicago Blackhawks in the Stanley Cup Qualifier. They were overwhelmed by demand before Game 1 then set a new world record before Game 2 of their series, raising more than $3 million, with half going to Edmontonians most hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Oilers Foundation will conduct its next 50/50 raffle, starting 9 a.m. MT before Game 4 of the best-of-5 series, and if the trend holds they'll create another new millionaire while also helping their city recover from coronavirus.