10 Potential NHL Winter Classic Matchups For The Future

Published: 21^st Dec 11 6:49 pm

by Randy Holt
NHL Network Manager

5 Rants

Introduction

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Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

The 2012 NHL Winter Classic is less than two weeks away, as the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers prep to take the ice at beautiful Citizens Bank Park in Philly.

This will be the second time the Flyers have appeared in a Winter Classic, but the first time they'll be taking the ice in front of their home fans. They played at Fenway Park against the Boston Bruins in the 2010 Classic.

At this point, we pretty much know what types of teams the NHL is looking to setup in these games. The main thing is that big hockey market, on top of some big name players. Throw in a popular venue and a possible rivalry and you're set.

This year's matchup is no exception to that formula, as the Flyers and Rangers hold one of the best rivalries in the NHL, along with some star players on either side. But almost as soon as their tilt ends on January 2nd, focus will shift to who could meet in next year's game.

Take a look at some of the matchups we'd like to see in the 2013 Winter Classic and beyond.