Is The NHL Stadium Series Set To Be Another Let Down By The NHL?

Over the last few years the NHL have had a massive increase in fans down south, especially in Florida. With the constant success surrounding the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Florida Panthers they are bound to be opportunities like the Winter Classic and the Stadium Series to be had, however despite having constant outside noise surrounding the events, the Stadium Series tonight may prove why the NHL have totally missed the target with outdoor games this season.

When the NHL announced that this year's Winter Classic would be held in Florida, it was met with mixed reviews and divided opinions, and ultimately, although the game was entertaining, it really didn’t feel like a proper Winter Classic. A closed roof in above freezing temperatures isn’t exactly what you think of getting from a once a year novelty event like the Winter Classic, and tonight’s Stadium Series in Tampa may prove that point that outdoor hockey shouldn’t be played in warmer states once again.

Although it is rumoured that the temperatures may dip to the low 30s tonight in Tampa, it has been reported by players including the Boston Bruins’ Charlie McAvoy that the ice is ‘patchy’ and ‘very soft’ with high hopes that a colder night will improve conditions. Aside from the fact that a game like this once again will be played in a place that hasn’t been met with a very good reception, it has presented even bigger issues away from any crowd or atmosphere concerns, and the playing surface may be the biggest issue of them all. 

The NHL is a league that prides itself on their utmost professionalism and having the best facilities in the world, however with how the conditions are looking so far for the Stadium Series, that really isn’t the case. For an event that is so obviously catered to a colder environment, choosing Florida two times in a season purely for monetary and audience gain, it hasn’t given the league the best reaction ever, and is just another massive mistake they have completely misjudged.