In Boston, Kevin Paul Dupont wrote the latest iteration of the NHL Winter Classic from Notre Dame Stadium was "exceptional, as good as it gets on the two most critical points: 1. Quality of game; 2. Quality of ice." Throughout the Bruins' 4-2 win over the Blackhawks, the "thick cloud cover over South Bend, Ind., never abated." The ice "never softened and TV did not have to contend with the camera wincing that comes with solar glare." The TV viewing experience was even "better than being there" (BOSTON GLOBE, 1/6).
ON THE AGENDA: In Charlotte, Brendan Marks proposed "four ideas to keep NASCAR relevant -- and alive" in '19 and beyond. First would be to "leave the Playoff system alone," followed by a "much-needed scheduling overhaul." The circuit also needs to "stop force-feeding fans the 'next generation' of drivers." Last is for NASCAR to find a way to "get to the forefront of implementing sports gambling" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 1/5).
STILL HURT FEELINGS: A ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH editorial wrote when the XFL begins playing at the Dome at America’s Center in February '20, it will be "under a far better deal" for St. Louis than the city got from the Rams. The editorial: "It’s all part of an encouraging national trend away from milking taxpayers for sports venues that enrich already mega-rich team owners. ... The XFL agreement, like the MLS proposal, is the right way to promote the city’s sports tradition without bleeding it dry. St. Louisans should welcome this winning play" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 1/6).
