ESPN.com is reporting that the NHL will announce a New Year's Day game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings. Last year's Winter Classic between Pittsburgh and Buffalo was one of the highest rated regular season games in NHL history.
I can't figure out if the NHL is stupid to do this, or smart. Having the game at Wrigley Field is smart. The history of the ballpark will draw some curiosity. Also, it will be easier for the Blackhawks to sell 41,000 tickets, as opposed to the 61,000 seat Soldier Field. The Blackhawks are one of the least followed teams in hockey. Percentage wise, they have the 3rd lowest attendance in the NHL, even though they play in the 3rd largest market.
But maybe that's a stroke of genius by the NHL. This game will promote Blackhawks hockey in Chicago. The involvement of the Red Wings will ensure the game has star power. All and all, it's a rare good idea from the NHL. But as a Bruins fan, and an employee at Gillette Stadium; I wanted the Bruins to play Montreal in Foxborough. Maybe next year.
-The Commodore
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