With the upcoming barrage of outdoor hockey games coming to the NHL in the next couple months, it’s only fitting that rumors and speculation begin for the next host of outdoor games. It’s not a matter of if, but when.
NHL COO John Collins got the ball rolling when he told the Ottawa Sun yesterday that the Senators upcoming appearance March 2 in the Heritage Classic won’t be their last. “Ottawa is going to get one”, he said. “It’s a great market. We had a great all-star experience (in 2012). It’s just a matter of picking a date to commit to it.”
The Sun is already speculating that it could happen in 2017. It will only be fitting because by then construction on the outdoor football stadium in the city Lansdowne Live will be completed. In additiom 2017 marks many anniversaries for Canada and the National Hockey League. That year is Canada’s 150th birthday, the 125th anniversary of the Stanley Cup, the 100th anniversary of the NHL and the Senators 25th year in the league. The Sun is also reporting that the potential opponent will be Montreal. That’s only fitting because the Canadiens are an Original Six franchise and have won the Stanley Cup more than any other team in league history.
The Sun also reports the Maple Leafs and Canadiens are also interested in hosting an outdoor game. It is unknown how soon those cities will receive a game.