The NHL is onto something.
Tuesday's outdoor game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Buffalo Sabres at Orchard Park, N.Y., home of the NFL's Buffalo Bills was a hit with players, coaches, fans and TV viewers. The game drew the NHL's highest ratings in 12 years, and it was a captivating spectacle for those who tuned in.
Neither snow, sleet or sometimes shaky ice conditions dampened the enthusiasm surrounding the event. I would like to see this become an annual event, possibly replacing the All-Star Game - as ESPN.com's EJ Hradek has suggested.
Based upon the favorable reviews and ratings, I don't think there is any question the Winter Classic will return.
The question is where next? Traditional hockey markets such as Toronto, Montreal, Detroit, New York, Boston, Chicago and Minnesota seem like the most likely candidates. All have pro-quality outdoor venues that could be converted, as Ralph Wilson Stadium was.
The Winter Classic is a great way for hockey to showcase itself while returning to its roots.
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