The "expectation" is that the NHL "will announce this weekend outdoor games next season" to be hosted by the Avalanche and Wild, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie. The Wild's opponent is "expected to be" the Blackhawks, while the Avalanche are "expected" to play against the Red Wings (TWITTER.com, 1/21). In St. Paul, Chad Graff notes the Blackhawks-Wild game "would be held at TCF Bank Stadium or Target Field." Wild Owner Craig Leipold's "ultimate goal has always been to host the Winter Classic, the NHL's annual marquee outdoor game." Leipold said that he "has turned down opportunities to be a visiting team in the Winter Classic and to host a Stadium Series game," but he has "now agreed to host a Stadium Series game next season if ... it strengthens the organization's chance of eventually hosting a Winter Classic" (ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS, 1/22). In Minneapolis, Michael Russo notes the date for the Wild's outdoor game has not been set, but the team "hopes to hold Hockey Day Minnesota the previous weekend at the site." A game featuring the AHL Iowa Wild "also could be on the docket." TCF Bank Stadium "could hold more fans, but Target Field has more premium seating." One obstacle with Target Field "is added costs, such as replacing the sod and winterizing the stadium" (Minneapolis STAR TRIBUNE, 1/22). Russo also reported the NHL as of yesterday "was still negotiating with Target Field and TCF Bank Stadium to determine which venue would host the stadium-series game and alumni game." There is a chance the venue "won’t be announced this weekend, although the hope is it will be finalized by then." The NHL originally wanted the Wild to play the Stars, but the Wild "requested the Blackhawks" (STARTRIBUNE.com, 1/21).
SPREADING THE SUCCESS: THE HOCKEY NEWS' Adam Proteau wrote the NHL's outdoor games "have been a staggering success everywhere they’ve been held, and there’s nothing to suggest they won’t go over like gangbusters in Minnesota and Colorado." The question at this point "isn’t where the league isn’t going to stage an outdoor game -- but rather, which market will be last to participate" (THEHOCKEYNEWS.com, 1/21).
