The NHL is set to bring the excitement of outdoor hockey to the Sunshine State next season with two highly anticipated games scheduled to take place in Florida. The Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers will host the New York Rangers at loanDepot Park in Miami on Jan. 2, 2026, in the Winter Classic. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Lightning will welcome the Boston Bruins to Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 1, 2026, for a Stadium Series game.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed the league's enthusiasm for this unique opportunity, highlighting the growth of hockey in Florida and the passionate fan bases of the Panthers and Lightning. Both franchises have long awaited the chance to host outdoor games, and their wish has finally been granted.
The games will be held at venues not typically associated with hockey. loanDepot Park, home of the Marlins, will host the Panthers-Rangers matchup, while Raymond James Stadium, home of the Buccaneers, will be the setting for the Lightning-Bruins game. Special arrangements will be made to ensure the ice conditions are suitable for play despite the warm Florida temperatures.
The league plans to create a winter wonderland atmosphere for the games, with unique features such as a temporary roof over the ice surface at Raymond James Stadium. The Marlins' retractable roof will also play a crucial role in facilitating the outdoor game in Miami.
These historic matchups mark the 44th and 45th regular-season outdoor contests in NHL history. The participating teams have a strong track record in outdoor games, with the Rangers, Bruins, and Lightning all boasting impressive records in such events.
Officials and team executives are thrilled at the prospect of showcasing hockey in a new and exciting way to fans in Florida. The games are expected to draw large crowds and further fuel the growth of the sport in the region.
Overall, the upcoming outdoor games in Florida represent a significant milestone for the NHL and a unique opportunity to expand the reach of hockey in non-traditional markets. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable experience as the league brings the magic of outdoor hockey to the Sunshine State.
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