I don't know why it is a big issue. Many games start time are dictated dictated by NBC schedule.
NBC has an option to pick up any game, but the first round is supposed to be covered by the locals. In past years both got aired at the same time. It just feels like the league finding any way possible to screw with the Caps. I try not to believe it's intentional, but between that and the bs officiating it's hard not to