NHL Reportedly Planning Second Outdoor Game For January 1, 2010

Second Outdoor Game Would Be Held At Calgary's McMahon Stadium

The NHL is "planning a second outdoor game for Jan. 1, 2010," according to league sources cited by E.J. Hradek of ESPN.com. The "back-end of the outdoor doubleheader would be hosted by the Flames" at McMahon Stadium, home of the CFL Calgary Stampeders. The opponent is "unknown but figures to be one of the other five Canadian-based franchises." While there has been "no official announcement, the first half of the Winter Classic twin bill likely will be hosted" by the Bruins at Fenway Park. The Capitals are "rumored to be the Bruins' opponent" (ESPN.com, 6/18). McMahon Stadium Manager John Haverstock said, "I guess it's a possibility, but to say it's close to reality is not correct. It's just so far been discussions. ... Logistically, it's possible. We had an artificial-ice surface at McMahon before at the closing ceremonies for the 1988 Olympics. So it can be done." Flames co-Owner Harley Hotchkiss also "confirmed that the idea is being batted around." Hotchkiss: "We would be an obvious choice." The CALGARY HERALD notes if the Flames' plans are approved, McMahon Stadium would be hosting the '09 CFL Grey Cup on November 29 and then the outdoor game "just scant weeks later." Haverstock: "Obviously the Grey Cup is a very big event, but this is do-able" (CALGARY HERALD, 6/19).

MONSTER'S BALL: YAHOO SPORTS' Greg Wyshynski wrote while it is a "foregone conclusion" that Fenway Park will host the '10 NHL Winter Classic, it is "time for the Capitals in the Classic." Wyshynski: "Ovechkin vs. The Green Monster. If you're trying to top the beautiful snow globe of the Buffalo Classic and the mythic kick of the Wings and Hawks at Wrigley, that's your best option" (SPORTS.YAHOO.com, 6/18).