NHL donating $100K to Fort McMurray wildfire relief

The National Hockey League will match the donations made by two of its clubs to aid wildfire relief in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

The league announced Thursday that it is donating $100,000 to the Canadian Red Cross relief efforts in the region, where more than 80,000 residents have been forced to evacuate.

"The National Hockey League family stands with all who have been affected by the devastating fires in Fort McMurray," commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement.

"We send thoughts of support and encouragement to our neighbors as they confront the physical and emotional impacts of this disaster."

Alberta's NHL teams, the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames, pledged Wednesday to donate $100,000 each to the cause, encouraging fans and business partners to contribute.

The St. Louis Blues announced Wednesday that proceeds from their 50/50 raffle and a silent auction will go towards families displaced by the fires.

Blues forward Scottie Upshall is from Fort McMurray and is among several NHLers affected.