2nd Winter Classic Another Success For NHL

The NHL produces another smash hit Thursday with its second Winter Classic, this one within the friendly confines of Wrigley Field. The press clips are staggering, with most agreeing the NHL has a winner that has successfully encroached upon college football’s perch on New Year’s Day. The Red Wings-Blackhawks game has a “Super Bowl-style atmosphere,” and it takes the NHL “just one try to produce” a perfect game at Wrigley. It is a “romantic return to the game's roots,” and as “made-for-TV movies go, it was brilliant.” Blackhawks Owner Rocky Wirtz is greeted enthusiastically throughout the day, as it is his "coming-out party” and the “Blackhawks Grand Re-Opening." Now the league is expected to "seize on the successes" of the first two Winter Classics and establish a bid process for future games.

Successful Debut Outing
MLB Network launch goes smoothly and plays to good early reviews.

Eye Witness
ESPN, not CBS, gets rights to broadcast ’10 Pro Bowl that will precede Super Bowl.

Wave 'Em Like You Just Don't Care
Three of four NFL teams hosting opening-round playoff games feature rally towels from supplier McArthur Towel & Sports.

Magic Appearing Act
Bright House Networks, Fox Cable reach deal to bring FSN Florida and Magic games to central Florida, breaking 16 month stalemate; dispute between KJZZ, DirecTV could result in Jazz games being unavailable to some Utah viewers.

Howl At The Moon
Coyotes CEO Shumway says rumors NHL is helping the franchise meet payroll are not true.

Sailing The Seven Seas 
Does Mike Shanahan’s exit from Denver open door to John Elway having a future exec role?

On The Rebound
Will TNT take any action against Charles Barkley after late-night arrest in Arizona?