Winter Classic 2012: Henrik Lundqvist Stars For Rangers In 3-2 Win Over Flyers

NHL Alumni Paid $200 For 2012 Winter Classic: Is That Fair?

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers, Episode 4 Recap: It's Not 'Just A Game,' After All

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers concluded in beautiful fashion this week, covering the Winter Classic in a way that we could never expect. After four weeks following two teams, we realize once again that hockey is much more than just a game. It's a way of life.

Winter Classic 2013: Detroit Red Wings Frontrunners To Host Game; Michigan Stadium Contacted

The 2012 NHL Winter Classic is only a few days old, but the speculation for where the 2013 game will be held has already started. The NHL just might already have it's destination in mind for the 2013 NHL Winter Classic. The current speculation is that the game will be held in Michigan at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor or at Comerica Park. Given the location, the signs point to the Detroit Red Wings as the hosting team for the game.

The NHL is in the early workings of setting up the game, but they have approached the University of Michigan about hosting the game. "We have been approached by the NHL about utilizing our facility for the 2013 Winter Classic," Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon said in a statement. "There are a lot of complex circumstances that need to be ironed out before anything moves forward. We will have more to say if/when something materializes."

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream. For more on the Detroit Red Wings, visit SB Nation's Redwings blog Winging It In Motown and SB Nation Detroit.

Flyers, Rangers Fans Fight After Winter Classic; Philadelphia Police Investigating

Philadelphia Police are on the hunt for suspects in an assault that took place outside of Geno's Steaks following the 2012 Winter Classic. In a YouTube video, men in Flyers jerseys were seen ganging up on men in Rangers jerseys.

Winter Classic 2012 Ratings Are The Worst In Event's History

The 2012 Winter Classic pulled the worst TV ratings in the event's five-year history, despite an exciting game featuring the New York Rangers three-goal comeback to beat the host Philadelphia Flyers 3-2 at Citizens Bank Park on Monday.

The NHL Winter Classic is traditionally held on New Year's Day, but was pushed back to Jan. 2 to prevent head-to-head competition with the all-mighty NFL on Sunday. Still the event managed to pull just a 2.4 overnight rating, down from 2.8 last season, which was in prime time.

Sports Business Journal's John Ourand offered some insight into the low ratings via Twitter:

Games in primetime typically get better ratings than games during the day. Last year, two stars (Crosby, Ovechkin) were in prime. ... Hosting it onJan. 2 hurt, I'm sure. The time change also put it up against college football. ... Ratings are higher on Jan. 1. But the NFL owned that day this year.

Here are the previous Winter Classic overnights, via Puck The Media:

• 2008: Pittsburgh vs. Buffalo: 2.6
• 2009: Detroit vs. Chicago: 2.9
• 2010: Philadelphia vs. Boston: 2.6
• 2011: Washington vs. Pittsburgh: 2.8
• 2012: NY Rangers vs. Philadelphia: 2.4

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2013 Won't Be Hosted By Washington Capitals

The Washington Capitals won't be the home team in the 2013 Winter Classic, according to their owner. The Detroit Red Wings are currently the favorites to host the event.

Winter Classic 2012: Top 5 Moments From Hockey's Weekend Celebration

Henrik Lundqvist, Mike Rupp and the New York Rangers won the 2012 Winter Classic, but it was more than just a hockey game on Monday afternoon that highlighted a jam-packed weekend at Citizens Bank Park.

Winter Classic 2012: Despite Win, John Tortorella Calls Officiating 'Disgusting'

The New York Rangers may have won the 2012 NHL Winter Classic, but that doesn't mean they were completely happy with the way things played out on the Citizens Bank Park ice. That penalty shot in the final minute? Yeah, John Tortorella wasn't exactly happy with it.

"I'm not sure if NBC got together with the refs or what to turn this into an overtime game," Torts said after his teams 3-2 win, in a half-joking tone highlighted by a twinge of austerity. "Starting with the non-call, Gabby's walking in and he gets pitch-forked in the stomach and then everything starts going against us.

"They're two good referees, but I thought that game was reffed horribly. I'm not sure what happened there. Maybe they wanted to get it to an overtime. I'm not sure if they have meetings about that or what. But we stood in there, we stood in there. And again, I don't wanna, cause they're good guys. In that third period, it was disgusting."

Mike Rupp, who turned out to be the hero of the evening for the Rangers, wasn't quite as harsh as his head coach.

"Those are calls that are made," Rupp said, referring to the penalty shot. "The referees are calling it as they see it. It's unfortunate, we didn't know if we really deserved it, but Hanky's a big time goalie and he came through big."

Henrik Lundqvist certainly did prove that he's a big time goalie in the game -- not that he really has anything to prove at this point in his career -- and the penalty shot was only the latest example. Lundqvist could feel the pressure when Danny Briere stepped to center ice, but luckily he was able to get over the shock of the call by the time Briere skated in on goal.

"I can't believe they even called a penalty shot, but it was exciting," he said. "It was just a big scramble. They tried to get pucks in front, and I didn't even see the puck. I just stretched out my right leg and tried to stay on the post there, and then I heard the whistle and the ref, 'penalty shot.' I couldn't believe it. "

Despite the incredulity from the Rangers, it was a very borderline play from Ryan McDonagh that forced the penalty shot call. Camera angles weren't all that conclusive, but McDonagh definitely touched the puck with his hand in the crease as it was moving toward the goal line.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Jaromir Jagr Injury: Leg Swelling Forced Flyers Forward Out Of Winter Classic

It was a little strange, seeing the clearly injured Jaromir Jagr sitting on the bench throughout Monday's Winter Classic. But there he was, just riding the pine all day instead of hopping the boards and playing the game with his Philadelphia Flyers teammates.

He played just 7:09 in total, and he didn't take a single shift after about the five minute mark of the second period. What ailed the 39-year-old future Hall of Famer, exactly?

"Last game in Pittsburgh, I got speared in my leg and it was a little bit swelling," Jagr said after the Flyers 3-2 loss in at Citizens Bank Park. Late in the first period, it was getting worse and worse. I wanted to come back. I tried. I just couldn't skate 100 percent. I couldn't help my teammates."

Okay, fine. It happens. But why were you on the bench the whole time if you couldn't play?

"I was hoping maybe a power play, five-on-three or something like that, and I just want to be with my teammates. ... And you never know. Maybe we get a shot at a 5-on-3 and you don't have to skate that much. But I wanted to be with my teammates there."

General manager Paul Holmgren listed Jagr as day-to-day, and the Czech legend says he hopes to be back soon.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Jaromir Jagr On Mike Rupp's Salute: 'Maybe That's The Way He Celebrates'

It was painfully obvious to everybody in attendance, not to mention the millions watching at home on television, that Mike Rupp was mimicking Flyers forward Jaromir Jagr with his goal celebration during the second period of Monday's Winter Classic. But Rupp doesn't know what you're talking about, reporter asking a question about said salute.

"No, I, uh.... I don't know what you're talking about," he said after the game. "I don't know what you're talking about." The Rangers forward then told the Bergen Record that he was "just happy to get a goal and I'll leave it at that."

How'd Jagr feel about it, sitting on the bench during the second period, despite not playing with what he explained was a leg injury?

"I was hoping someone scored and we'd salute him back, but it just didn't happen. It's fine with me, it's not my signature. I do it because I'm celebrating a goal. Maybe he does it too. Maybe he's celebrating like that too, I don't know. He doesn't score many goals. That's nothing against him, I didn't see. Maybe that's the way he celebrates."

The other Flyers weren't exactly paying attention to Rupp after his goal, but when asked about it after the game, they weren't exactly thrilled with the notion.

"Oh, I didn't even see that," Matt Read told us. "I don't know. That's kind of, uh, wow I don't even know what to think about that. If I saw that I'd probably take a run at him or something like that. But I don't know, can't do anything about it now."

Marc-Andre Bourdon, the Flyers rookie defenseman who earlier in the game challenged Brandon Dubinsky to a fight, was sort of puzzled by Rupp's very obvious taunt of a future Hall of Famer.

"I don't know, whatever," Bourdon said. "If he thinks it's funny, good for him. Jags scored a thousand-something points and over 500 goals, so I think if he tried to chirp him or anything, I don't know if it worked too well. I don't know what his purpose was."

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Marc Staal Returns From Injury, Plays Limited Minutes In 2012 Winter Classic

Marc Staal returned from his concussion on Monday afternoon, which just so happened to be the 2012 NHL Winter Classic. And for Staal, who hasn't played all season thanks to that injury, it was a pleasant surprise that he had the opportunity to play in the NHL's fifth-annual outdoor showcase.

"To be honest, I wrote it off for a long time so that when the day came and I wasn't playing, it wouldn't bother me as much," Staal said following his team's 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers at Citizens Bank Park. "Obviously the stage was big I think. I thought everyone was in a different boat. No one was used to the style of the game since it was outside. I kind of eased my way into it and it was good."

It wasn't perfect, though. Staal didn't immediately return to his spot on the Rangers top defensive pairing, a gig that's been taken over by Dan Girardi and surprising youngster Ryan McDonagh. He only played 12:41 of total ice time, and head coach John Tortorella still thinks he needs to ease in his star defenseman.

"The game was pretty quick for him," Torts said. "He readily admitted early on, those first few shifts. There were some mistakes here and there, but it's great to have him in the lineup. We're gonna slowly get him about. There's some work to do.

"Even without a concussion, any player that misses camp, it's a struggle, so we have to be really cognizant of how we use him. We don't want to put him in a situation where he doesn't get his game back, but it'll be there. He's going to be a very important guy."

Staal agreed about the mistakes.

"I feel good. There's no problems. I didn't play a whole lot, but that was the plan we talked about it last night. I made some mistakes out there but I'll try to get better ... I didn't play all that much. From shift-to-shift I didn't run out of gas fast, I felt pretty good."

Even though it wasn't a perfect afternoon for Staal, just having him back on the bench and in the active lineup is a step up for the Rangers. McDonagh talked about that after the game.

"I thought he was really good. He has a presence about him when he's out there. He's got a big body and a big reach, he's tough to get around. He's so good with the puck and he's smart positionally. I mean, he's an All-Star. It's no coincidence that he steps up in a big game for us here. He played some crucial minutes. He was huge for us in that penalty kill with five minutes left in the third."

And that's where the Rangers need Staal the most. He's without a doubt their best defenseman, and with a guy like that, even if he's not at 100 percent of his normal production, he's still a better option than most. A better option than Jeff Woywitka, for example.

"I feel terrible about taking Jeff out," Tortorella said. "Leading up, you know he's in that lineup ready to play this type of game, right up to last night after the meal. I don't feel great about that but he was terrific when I talked to him. He understands when Marc Staal says yes to me, he's going to play."

Marc Staal played on Monday. He's back in the Rangers lineup, and as they expanded their lead in both the Eastern Conference and Atlantic Division with their win over the rival Philadelphia Flyers, they're only going to be scarier as the season progresses.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Henrik Lundqvist Steals 2012 NHL Winter Classic For New York Rangers

Henrik Lundqvist and the New York Rangers trailed the Winter Classic 2-0 at one point in the second period, but aside from the 1:55 span where he allowed goals from Brayden Schenn and Claude Giroux, the league's best goaltender on the East's best team was just that on Monday afternoon.

It was evident all afternoon long that Lundqvist was on top of his game, and he made it look easy for most of the game. The Flyers outshot the Rangers just 36 to 33, but those numbers aren't a complete indication of how the Flyers basically controlled the first 40 minutes of play.

Without Lundqvist coming up big throughout that stretch, the outcome could have been very different than the 3-2 Rangers win we saw on the scoreboard.

"He's a big guy, he takes up a lot of space," Flyers defenseman Braydon Coburn said after the game. "I don't even think he sometimes saw those pucks coming in, but he's got great positioning and it just hits him and that's a credit to his technique."

No save was bigger than his stop on a Danny Briere penalty shot with just 20 seconds remaining in the game. Briere was awarded the shot when Ryan McDonagh covered the puck in the crease, and any Flyer who had been on the ice had the opportunity to shoot. Head coach Peter Laviolette chose Briere, but the goaltender won the battle and sealed the two points for his team.

Thanks to Lundqvist, the Rangers have opened up a four point lead on the Flyers in both the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference races.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012 Score: Rangers Rally To Top Flyers, 3-2

Despite allowing the Flyers to score the first two goals of the game, the Rangers rallied by scoring the final three, including two by Mike Rupp, to take the 2012 Winter Classic at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia by the score 3-2.

Brad Richards scored the game-winner at the 5:21 mark in the third, but the rest of the game wasn't without drama as the Flyers had a chance to tie in the final minute with a penalty shot, which was awarded when Ryan McDonagh covered the puck in the crease.

Flyers center Danny Briere took the shot and tried to go between Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist's legs, but he was denied. With just 19.6 seconds left on the clock, the Rangers survived Philly's final flurry to win the game.

After a scoreless opening period, Flyers center Brayden Schenn opened the scoring with his first goal of the year at thee 12:21 mark of the second period. Just two minutes later, Claude Giroux extended the Flyers' lead to 2-0, but it would take just half a minute for Mike Rupp to answer for the Rangers with just his second goal of the year. Rupp scored again at the 2:41 mark in the third period, setting up Richards' game-winner a few minutes later.

Lundqvist finished the game with 35 saves; Flyers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, meanwhile, stopped 30 of 33.

The Flyers were without Jaromir Jagr for much of the game, as the veteran left the ice in the first period. He briefly returned early in the second period but then did not play the rest of the game, apparently due to an unannounced injury.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012 Score: Brad Richards Goal Puts New York Rangers Up, 3-2

Mike Rupp has two goals in the 2012 NHL Winter Classic. Not only does he have two goals, but they're the difference in the hockey game, as his New York Rangers lead 3-2. Rupp put the first two on the board for New York, who fell down 2-0 on goals from Brayden Schenn and Claude Giroux.

Rupp's first goal cut the lead in half, and just 2:41 into the third period, Rupp's second goal tied the score.

The tie lasted less than three minutes, and somehow, the Flyers defense forgot about Brad Richards. The Rangers top forward snuck in behind the defense and buried a Sergei Bobrovsky rebound in the back of the net to take the lead.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Jaromir Jagr Injury: Flyers Forward On Bench But Not Playing At Winter Classic

When Jaromir Jagr walked to the locker room -- or clubhouse, whatever -- at Citizens Bank Park during the first period of the Winter Classic, it seemed to just be an equipment issue. Maybe he needed a skate fix or something.

When the Flyers returned to the ice for the second period, Jagr followed his teammates out about a minute late, and only took a handful of shifts early in the period, he remained on the bench for most of the action as several other Flyers replaced him on the top line with Claude Giroux and Scott Hartnell.

Jagr returned to the bench for the third period, but doesn't appear to be involved in the mix for the Flyers at all. The Flyers could use him, too, as they've fallen behind the New York Rangers, 3-2, in the third period.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

ANIMATED: Mike Rupp Celebrates Winter Classic Goal With Jaromir Jagr Salute

VIDEO: Mike Milbury Might Not Like The Rangers Too Much

Winter Classic 2012 Score: Claude Giroux Scores, But Mike Rupp Cuts Flyers Lead In Half

The 2012 NHL Winter Classic was a defensive battle for a while there, and then, all the sudden, goals for everybody. Brayden Schenn kicked off the scoring for the Philadelphia Flyers, netting his first NHL goal at the 12:26 mark of the second period. Then, just under two minutes later, Claude Giroux made it 2-0 for the home team on this beauty.

Giroux, the NHL's top scorer, hadn't scored a single point against the Rangers in two games this season, and that was a major key for the Flyers coming in. But just 30 seconds after Giroux's goal, Mike Rupp made it as irrelevant as Jody Shelley with a tally of his own.

It's 2-1 in favor of the Flyers, and it's evident that the game has opened up considerably since the start, when the teams were still just feeling each other out. We'd bet the final score doesn't end up 3-1.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012 Score: Brayden Schenn Puts Flyers Up With First NHL Goal

Brayden Schenn has picked a fantastic time to score his first career NHL goal. The 20-year-old has the Philadelphia Flyers on the board first in the 2012 Winter Classic, as they lead the New York Rangers 1-0 late in the second period. Schenn. Henrik Lundqvist had been stealing the show up until the goal, but he was partially at fault for the opener.

After Schenn won a faceoff, Matt Carle chased down the puck and threw it on net. Lundqvist got his body in front of it, but the puck appeared to change directions just before it reached him. As a result, he couldn't do what he wanted with the puck and gave up a juicy rebound that fell right to Schenn. The youngster tapped in his first career goal, breaking the deadlock in what had been a very defensive game.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: Flyers, Rangers Don't Like Each Other Too Much

The Winter Classic is a made-for-TV event, and sometimes we forget that there's an actual hockey game going on amidst the fireworks and the fancy vintage jerseys and the atmosphere in the outdoor stadium. The New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers are trying to remind us that they're on the ice battling for first place, however.

Boom.

There haven't been many penalties -- just two minor stick infractions in the first period -- as the teams have stayed relatively disciplined. Part of that has to do with the importance of the game and the need to stay out of the penalty box, and some of it is because both teams are still feeling their way around the outdoor rink at Citizens Bank Park.

But if one thing is for certain, these teams still hate each other, and man, that makes this whole thing so much more fun.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Jaromir Jagr Leaves Ice In First Period Of Winter Classic

Jaromir Jagr, who has had an effective first period for the Philadelphia Flyers with arguably their best scoring chance, was forced off the ice early in the 2012 Winter Classic. With around five minutes left in the period, Jagr had to be removed from the game and did not come out for another shift. However, there's no reason to worry, Flyers fans. It appears that Jagr just has an equipment issue and that he is not injured.

Jagr had what looked like a clear scoring chance in the middle of the period, but New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist got a piece of his close-range effort and the puck dribbled harmlessly across the crease with no one to take advantage of the open net. Almost certainly, he'll be back out on the ice for the second period.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012 Score: Rangers, Flyers Scoreless After First Period Thanks To Henrik Lundqvist

Henrik Lundqvist has been the star of the first period at the 2012 NHL Winter Classic between the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers, making several key saves to keep the Flyers off the board. Early in the first period, he made a crucial save on a Claude Giroux breakaway, and a few minutes later he stopped a Kimmo Timonen blast with a beauty of a glove save.

Then, with a few minutes remaining in the period, ex-Ranger and future Hall of Famer Jaromir Jagr broke in on net much like he did to Giroux, turned aside the Flyers scoring chance.

The Flyers have done a good job of getting pucks on Lundqvist, but the Rangers defense has done a better job of clearing rebounds and not allowing the Flyers to set up body position in front of their goaltender. Each team killed a penalty in the first period, and the Flyers outshot the Rangers by a total of 12 to nine in the first period.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: Henrik Lundqvist Barely Makes Save On Claude Giroux Breakaway

We're scoreless at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia with about 10 minutes remaining in the first period of the 2012 NHL Winter Classic, and we can blame that solely on the butt-end of Henrik Lundqvist's stick.

A few minutes into the period, Claude Giroux beat New York Rangers defenseman Dan Girardi and broke in on goal. Lundqvist came out to challenge Giroux, and the Flyers star almost had him beat, but Lundqvist had a bit of luck on his side.

The game has been relatively slow in the early going as the teams work out the kinks and quirks of the outdoor ice rink. The teams have gotten involved physically a bit after whistles around the New York yet, but no penalties have been awarded just yet. That's not stopping the fans from enjoying the atmosphere at the ballpark, however.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: Starting Lineups For New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers

We're just minutes from puck drop at the 2012 Winter Classic in Philadelphia, and as The Roots perform in left field, the teams are ready to come out onto the ice. The starting lineups for each team have been announced, and Marc Staal will start the game on the bench. Staal is playing on the third pairing with Stu Bickel. Jeff Woywitka is the late scratch.

Starting on defense for the Rangers will be the top pairing of Dan Girardi and Ryan McDonagh. They'll be going with their top line of Carl Hagelin, Brad Richards and captain Ryan Callahan. Henrik Lundqvist starts in goal for New York.

For the Philadelphia Flyers, they'll also go with their top line in Claude Giroux, Jaromir Jagr and Scott Hartnell to kick off the game. Braydon Coburn and Kimmo Timonen start things off on defense, while Sergei Bobrovsky gets the nod in goal over usual starter Ilya Bryzgalov.

Patti LaBelle, a Philadelphia native, will sing the Star Spangled Banner.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Photos: Fans Celebrate Hockey In, Around Citizens Bank Park

PHILADELPHIA -- Parking lots around Citizens Bank Park were opened to the public at 9 a.m. Monday morning, but the Sports Complex in town was teeming with activity long before then.

Fans snuck their way in and began tailgating for the 2012 Winter Classic as early as 7 a.m., and by 12 p.m., Spectator Plaza on 11th Street outside the ballpark was a mob scene. We were part of that mob, and we took a bunch of neat pictures. You can see them below.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Marc Staal Injury: Rangers Top Defenseman Will Play In Winter Classic

After telling the media on Sunday that defenseman Marc Staal would be out of the lineup, New York Rangers head coach John Tortorella changed his tune on Monday morning, telling the assembled media at Citizens Bank Park that Staal would indeed make his return to the lineup for the 2012 Winter Classic.

Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter was at the press conference and they relayed the news.

"Last night at dinner I talked to Jim Ransey and Dr. Robert Cantu and everything was good with both of them," Tortorella said at the 12:45 press conference today. "So I asked Staal is he could play, and I heard so many things and I said to Staal 'I don't care about what anyone else thinks are you ready to play?' And he said he was, so he's playing."

Sounds simple enough. We'll see who he plays with and how much he plays, but Staal will indeed play on Monday afternoon.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banterand Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

NHL Winter Classic 2012: 5 Keys To Victory For Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers

The elements will have an impact on the 2012 NHL Winter Classic, but when it comes down to it, this battle for Atlantic Division supremacy between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers won't be decided by bad ice, atmosphere or weather.

2012 Winter Classic Weather Update: Start Time Delayed Due To Sun

The 2012 Winter Classic is happening later on Monday afternoon -- later than previously scheduled, even -- as the NHL's now-annual outdoor event gets underway outdoors. The weather apparently caused the delay in start time, but it isn't because of weather conditions most might expect for this time of year.

Snow and rain aren't in the forecast for Monday afternoon, according to the Weather Channel, as sun and a high of 41 degrees currently is on slate for the second day of the new year. The sun is actually what's causing the delay, not any sort of bad weather conditions, according to SB Nation's own Travis Hughes.

The problem isn't the unseasonably warm temperatures in Philadelphia, rather the sun that beats down on the rink in the middle of the afternoon. The ice conditions become too soft for an NHL game. Cloud cover would have solved the problems, but with mostly sunny skies in the forecast for Monday, delaying the game became necessary.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: NHL Needs To Find Consistency With Start Time

The NHL can't control the weather, but after two years of altered start times at the Winter Classic, they need more consistency if they expect the event to grow.

VIDEO: Claude Giroux's Sister Gets Engaged On Winter Classic Ice

NHL Winter Classic: Rangers, Flyers Throw Made-For-TV Script Out Window

Despite best-laid plans, the 2012 Winter Classic will start behind schedule, without each team's best defenseman, and without 24/7 star Ilya Bryzgalov. That's hockey, baby. There is no script.

2012 NHL Winter Classic: TV, Live Streaming And More

The 2012 NHL WInter Classic was set to have the puck drop on Monday, January 2nd at 1:00 pm ET in Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, but ice conditions have warranted a time change. The puck will now drop at 3 p.m. ET.

The New York Rangers will take on the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL's annual "outdoor" game. The Flyers will be looking to pick up some goals against a New York Rangers defense that has been playing very well so far in the early stages of the 2011-12 NHL season. The Rangers have won five games in a row, allowing just seven goals in that stretch of games.

Both teams come in with virtually even records on the season, but the Rangers are led by right winger Marian Gaborik who leads the Rangers in both goals and points. On the flip side, center Claude Giroux heads into the game leading the Flyers in points and assists, while winger Scott Hartnell leads the team in goals scored. The Flyers lost on the road to the Rangers back on December 23rd, but will look to rebound from a stretch that has seen the team lose four of their last six games.

Game date, time: 3:00 p.m. ET, Monday, January 2nd

Location: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

TV channel: NBC, CBC, nbcsports.com (live stream)

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Marc Staal Won't Play In Winter Classic For New York Rangers

Marc Staal practiced outdoors on Sunday with his New York Rangers teammates, but he won't be playing in the Winter Classic against the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday afternoon. Head coach John Tortorella told the media that he'll use his same lineup against the Flyers in the fifth-annual outdoor game, and that means he'll be without the services of his No. 1 defenseman for a little bit longer.

As for his eventual return? Tortorella isn't having that discussion.

"I told my trainer, I need a yes or a no," Torts said Sunday at Citizens Bank Park. "I don't want to talk about it. I don't want to speculate. I don't want percentages. I want a yes or a no. When I get a yes, he'll play. Nothing has changed."

Staal hasn't played since suffering a concussion in February. He was cleared for contact on Monday and was hoping to potentially return for the Winter Classic, but now that won't happen.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

2012 NHL Winter Classic Start Time Moved To 3 P.M.

Just like Saturday's Winter Classic Alumni Game, the 2012 NHL Winter Classic between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers will start at 3 p.m. ET, pushed back two hours from its original 1 p.m. start time. The NHL announced the news, and it's assumed that it's being forced by the same concerns that pushed back Saturday's game.

The problem isn't the unseasonably warm temperatures in Philadelphia, rather the sun that beats down on the rink in the middle of the afternoon. The ice conditions become too soft for an NHL game. Cloud cover would have solved the problems, but with mostly sunny skies in the forecast for Monday, delaying the game became necessary.

Gates will open at Citizens Bank Park at 1 p.m. for the game, and television coverage on NBC and CBC will be pushed back two hours as well.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: Sergei Bobrovsky, Not Ilya Bryzgalov, To Start For Philadelphia Flyers

Sergei Bobrovsky will be in the crease for the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday afternoon, as he's been given the nod over usual starting netminder Ilya Bryzgalov. The 22-year-old Russian has played well of late, most recently by beating the rival Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday evening, and Peter Laviolette has opted to ride the hot hand as opposed to giving the nod to the man who's getting paid $51 million.

Bryzgalov actually broke the news to the media before Laviolette, and there was no official announcement from the coach, who played dumb when asked by reporters.

I have been consistent with how I've handled the announcement of goaltenders. I have not spoken to the goaltenders yet and have not announced anything yet. We plan on making an announcement later on today as to who the starter will be.

It's the biggest game of the season for both the Flyers and New York Rangers, and that's beyond the typical hype of the Winter Classic. The teams are separated by just two points in the standings, and a Flyers win would pull them even with the Rangers for first place in the Eastern Conference. Consider that they've yet to beat the Rangers this season and it only magnifies the game further.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

NHL Winter Classic 2012: Bernie Parent Dazzles In Alumni Game

Bernie Parent is 66, and his last game in the NHL was in 1979. That didn't stop the Flyers legend from stealing the show in the 2012 Winter Classic's Alumni Game on Saturday.

Parent didn't concede a goal in his five minutes between the pipes, despite facing six shots, and sprawled for one save that got the crowd roaring. Serenaded with a "Bernie, Bernie, Bernie!" chant as he left the ice, Parent told reporters he loved it:

"I don't know how to describe it," he said. "I guess the best way to describe it is: The feeling you get when people chant your name, money cannot buy. Any amount of money cannot buy that."

Versus, which televised the game, named Parent the first of its three stars.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game Final Score: Flyers Greats Claim 3-1 Win Over Rangers' Best

The 2011 Winter Classic Alumni Game included a handful of goals and a fair bit of good play, and went to the Philadelphia Flyers' alumni, 3-1.

The Flyers scored twice in the first period, on goals from John LeClair and Shjon Podein, and though the Rangers pulled one back in the second period via Glenn Anderson's stick, Mark Howe added a penalty shot goal in the third period to produce the game's final margin.

Versus' crew named Bernie Parent, Eric Lindros, and Mark LaForest its three stars of the game. Parent, the legendary 66-year-old Flyers goalie, played for just five minutes, but did not allow a goal, and sprawled to make one memorable save. Lindros assisted on LeClair's goal, and LaForest made a number of saves in relief of Parent.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game: Photos From Flyers Vs. Rangers At Citizens Bank Park

Citizens Bank Park is dressed in orange as Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers legends celebrate the game of hockey by laughing at each other, falling over and, occasionally, putting on huge bursts of speed and blowing past defensemen who haven't played pro hockey in 30 years.

It's a beautiful thing. As is the ballpark, which has been transformed into an orange mob that looks a whole lot like hockey heaven. More than 45,000 people turned out for the event, which will now almost certainly be an annual tradition that's just as big as the Winter Classic itself. Fans were decked out in all kinds of old jerseys, with the most popular coming with a big No. 88 on the back.

We walked around the park during the second period of the game and took in the scene. Now, we'll share it with you as best we can.

For complete coverage of Saturday's Winter Classic Alumni Game, stay tuned to our StoryStream for updates. For coverage of Monday's Winter Classic, check in with that StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game Score: Rangers Score In Second, But Flyers Still Lead

The Winter Classic Alumni Game is through two periods and darkness is slowly creeping in, but the legends from the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers are still playing as hard as ever on Saturday afternoon. The Rangers scored once in the second period, but the hosting Flyers are still on top 2-1 through two stanzas of play.

Rangers right wing veteran Glenn Anderson was able to score an assist from Darius Kasparaitis to tally the Rangers first goal of the game. It initially looked as though Kasparaitis was planning to pass to Brian Leetch, but Anderson deflected the puck into the net to put New York on the scoreboard.

The Flyers took the lead in the first period when John LeClair and Shjon Podein each getting the puck past the opposing team and into the net.

For complete coverage of Saturday's Winter Classic Alumni Game, stay tuned to our StoryStream for updates. For coverage of Monday's Winter Classic, check in with that StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game: Flyers On Top Thanks To 'Legion Of Doom' Line

The 2011 Winter Classic Alumni game got off to a slow start, but things have quickly changed around as the Philadelphia Flyers scored two goals in just a few minutes to put the home team on top of the former New York Rangers legends. The famed Legion of Doom line put the first goal in before Shjon Podein scored just a couple of minutes later.

The first goal came when Eric Lindros assisted on a goal for John LeClair as they reconnected from their run with the famed Legion of Doom line back in the mid-90s. The third skater on that line, Mikael Renberg, isn't in attendance, but Lindros and LeClair represented him well.

Just a short while later, Shjon Podein corralled a rebound and put the puck in the net to give the Flyers a 2-0 advantage. No word on if the Rangers plan to change goalies anytime soon.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game: Bernie Parent Pitches 5 Minute Shutout, Makes Curtain Call

PHILADELPHIA -- The 2012 NHL Winter Classic Alumni Game is here, and just about everything about it is a little bizarre. It's about 50 degrees at 3 p.m. in Philadelphia, and while the ice was covered until warmups.

It feels like Opening Day for the Phillies... minus the whole ice rink on the field and orange, not red, in the stands thing. The teams aren't decked out in the jerseys that'll be worn in the Winter Classic come Monday afternoon. Instead, they're wearing the everyday jerseys for their team.

The game is certainly slower than the average NHL game, as you'd expect. Guys like Jeremy Roenick and Mark Recchi are on the ice and still in or close to NHL shape, but the rosters are mainly filled out by men who haven't played competitive hockey in a very long time.

Like Bernie Parent, for example. The legendary Flyers goaltender only played about five minutes in the first period, but after being serenaded with Bernie! Bernie! chants during introductions, he made three saves in those five minutes to pitch a shutout. One stop on a Ron Duguay breakaway looked a whole lot less than smooth, but it's Bernie Parent making a save on a breakaway. In the year 2011. On an ice rink built on a baseball diamond.

When Parent left the ice, the orange-clad crowd shouted more chants, and he stepped off the bench for a curtain call. It's probably the last time Parent will play hockey in an orange Flyers sweater, but it was five minutes that Flyers fans wil never forget.

For complete coverage of Saturday's Winter Classic Alumni Game, stay tuned to our StoryStream for updates. For coverage of Monday's Winter Classic, check in with that StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game: 4 Reasons 2012 Edition Is Better Than Ever

Eric Lindros' return to Philadelphia and deep seated hatred between the Flyers and Rangers are just some of the reasons why the 2012 Winter Classic Alumni Game is the biggest version we've seen yet.

2012 Winter Classic Weather Update: Temperature Won't Be An Issue, But The Wind Might Be

The 2012 Winter Classic Alumni Game was pushed back due to poor ice conditions, thanks to the sun on the rink in Philadelphia. The game is being played at 3 p.m. ET now at Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Phillies. The high today is a not-so-cold 54 degrees, and it's a sunny day, so the poor ice conditions are expected to continue through the early afternoon.

The weather forecast for the 2012 Winter Classic Alumni game is a bit warmer than expected. Via Weather.com:

Dan Craig's refrigeration truck and his crew will be hard at work today to keep the ice in favorable conditions for the game.

The weather for the 2012 Winter Classic on Monday at 1 p.m. ET however will be a bit colder, and windy. Via Weather.com:

The game should definitely be cold enough for some favorable ice conditions, although the sunlight could still be an issue, however it looks to be windy with gusts up to 22 miles per hour.

The concerns for rain earlier in the week look to be all for nought, but if there are indeed wind gusts it could effect how some guys skate. I can't imagine skating into 20+ mile an hour wind gusts is easy, even for professionals. With the rink positioned from east to west, the teams will have to contend with the wind. They'll switch ends at the midway point of the third period in hopes of eliminating any competitive advantage.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game 2012: Start Time, TV Coverage And Lineups For Flyers Vs. Rangers

Due to poor ice conditions, The Winter Classic Alumni Game between alumni from the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers, originally scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. ET at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on Saturday, has been pushed back to 3 p.m. ET.

The game will be shown on VERSUS in the United States and CBC in Canada. In the Philadelphia area, the game will be carried on Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia.

Lacing up the skates for the Rangers will be Glenn Anderson, Dan Blackburn, Paul Broten, Ron Duguay, Nick Fotiu, Mike Gartner, Adam Graves, Ron Greschner, Darius Kasparaitis, Kris King, Nick Kypreos, Tom Laidlaw, Darren Langdon, Brian Leetch, Dave Maloney, Stephane Matteau, Mark Messier, Brian Mullen, Dale Purinton, Mathieu Schneider, Darren Turcotte and John Vanbiesbrouck. Mike Keenan, Emile Francis and Colin Campbell will be behind the bench.

The home team will counter with Bill Barber, Terry Carkner, Bob Clarke, Eric Desjardins, Jim Dowd, Larry Goodenough, Derian Hatcher, Al Hill, Mark Howe, Bob Kelly, Orest Kindrachuk, Mark LaForest, John LeClair, Reggie Leach, Eric Lindros, Ken Linseman, Neil Little, Brad Marsh, Shjon Podein, Dave Poulin, Brian Propp, Mark Recchi, Jeremy Roenick, Kjell Samuelsson, Chris Therien, Rick Tocchet and Joe Watson. The Flyers will be coached by Pat Quinn, Mike Nykoluk and Keith Primeau.

Winter Classic Alumni Game Start Time Now 3 P.M. Due To Poor Ice Conditions

Winter Classic Alumni Game Start Time Could Be Pushed Back Thanks To Sun Issues

PHILADELPHIA -- While the weather at Citizens Bank Park is beautiful on Friday afternoon, and it's expected to be the same over the next few days, there's one weather problem that's wreaking havoc on the ice that's down on the field.

The sun.

As a result of direct sunlight, events are being pushed back at the ballpark Friday, and there's a chance the sun could impact Alumni Game festivities on Saturday, too.

It's just a dose of bad luck that from about 11 a.m. to about 2 p.m, the sun comes in direct contact with the ice rink that's positioned across the center of the baseball diamond. As the sun moves from the East to the West, it swings parallel to the ice, making direct contact for several hours.

Here's an image of the field at just around 11:20 a.m. Friday. You'll notice the blankets over the logos to protect them from the sunlight. There are some shadows on the rink, but there's also plenty of sunlight, and it only gets worse as the middle of the day progresses.

That's awful for the quality of the ice, as you can imagine. It can be a freezing cold day, but a direct hit from the sun will still warm the ice considerably. Couple that with the fact that temperatures are expected to be in the high 40s to mid-50s without much cloud cover over the next few days, and the NHL has a serious problem on their hands.

As a result of the sun contact, a media game originally scheduled for 12 p.m. Friday has been pushed back to 3 p.m., and a media skate scheduled for 1 p.m. was pushed back to 2 p.m. The sun will, hopefully, be mostly off the ice by then, eliminating the problems.

An NHL spokesman said that there are preliminary discussions ongoing about the possibility to moving the Alumni Game from a 1 p.m. start time on Saturday. After all, with the weather forecast virtually the same for Saturday as it is Friday, those same issues with the sun will still exist. But there's nothing official on that. If there's a change, we'd expect an announcement from the NHL on Friday evening.

For more on this year's Winter Classic, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banterand Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Sean Avery Placed On Waivers Again By New York Rangers

Sean Avery is back on waivers Friday afternoon, available to be claimed by any team in the NHL, placed there by the New York Rangers.

This is the second time this season Avery has been on waivers. He cleared the wire and was sent to the American Hockey League earlier in the year, where he played two games. The team called him up following an injury to Mike Rupp, and he even cleared re-entry waivers, where he was available to the other 29 clubs at half price.

But now that Rupp is back from his injury, Avery is a disposable piece. He hasn't played since December 10, and in his 15 total games with the NHL club this season, Avery has just three points. He's not been an impact player for the team like he has been in the past, and he's clearly fallen out of favor with John Tortorella.

The only unfortunate part is that he won't be involved in the Winter Classic festivities, and with his personality, that could've been pretty darn entertaining. Then again, there is the chance that he could clear waivers and still be a member of the Rangers come Monday. Or, the Flyers could claim him for laughs.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic In Miami? Panthers Want 'Outdoor Game' At Marlins Ballpark

Winter Classic 2012 Weather Update: It's Gonna Be Sort Of Perfect For Outdoor Hockey

PHILADELPHIA -- It's a beautiful day for hockey here at Citizens Bank Park today, partly cloudy and 45 degrees, but unfortunately, there will be no hockey played today on the ice down on the field. But that's okay, because as it's shaping up, the next three days are going to be just as beautiful.

For the Winter Classic Alumni Game on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET time, the forecast is just going to be perfect. Via weather.com:

Maybe a little warm for hockey, actually, but Dan Craig's refrigeration truck can handle those temperatures just fine, and if the fans are comfortable in their seats, it'll make the overall atmosphere much more enjoyable as Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers legends suit up and take the ice.

For the Winter Classic itself on Monday at 1 p.m, it's looking similarly beautiful.

... and colder. 42 degrees, partly cloudy, maybe a little bit windy but generally pretty nice. That whole rain thing we were worrying about early in the week doesn't seem to be much of an issue anymore, does it?

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banterand Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

NHL Winter Classic 2012: Philadelphia Flyers Face Tough Decision On Starting Goaltender

The Philadelphia Flyers have one of the most important games of the season scheduled for Monday when they face the New York Rangers in the now-annual NHL Winter Classic. Flyers coach Peter Laviolette has an important decision to make over the weekend regarding the game, too, as he tries to decide whether to start Sergei Bobrovsky or Ilya Bryzgalov in goal.

The team's starting goaltender has been a point of contention all season, but Frank Seravelli wasn't able to get any inside tips when he wrote about the situation on Friday.

Does Laviolette go with his $51 million man in the most visible NHL game of the season? Or does he go with his best statistical chance to win for a game that counts in the already tight standings?

Yesterday, when asked before the game what was more important, a win or "not hurting anyone's feelings," Laviolette's answer was direct and simple.

"The only thing that really matters is to get the two points," Laviolette said.

It'll be interesting to see whether Laviolette decides to ride the hot hand or go with the guy the team is paying big money to defend his team's goal, but that decision doesn't seem to be coming anytime soon.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

NHL Winter Classic: League Facing Inevitable Risks In Picking New Teams To Play Outdoors

The NHL Winter Classic is in its fifth year, and as the event gets older and older, it's growing into a spectacle of its own. But as it expands to include more teams, the NHL is taking a big, but necessary, risk.

Winter Classic 2012, Flyers Vs. Rangers: A Game That Matters In Fight For First Place

With the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers each chasing first place in the East, the NHL's made-for-TV Winter Classic event will again feature a matchup that matters.

Flyers Vs. Penguins: Salute! Former Pens Jagr, Talbot Key Philadelphia 4-2 Win In Return To Pittsburgh

Former Pens Jaromir Jagr and Maxime Talbot made triumphant returns to Pittsburgh, each scoring a goal, as the Flyers defeated the Pens Thursday night at the CONSOL Energy Center.

Philadelphia Flyers Beat New York Rangers, 3-1, In EA SPORTS Simulation Of 2012 Winter Classic

The actual 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers isn't until Monday, but EA SPORTS thinks they already know who's going to win at Citizens Bank Park.

EA SPORTS conducted a simulation of the game on its EA SPORTS NHL series simulation engine this week and determined that the Rangers will score first but the Flyers will end up winning 3-1.

According to EA's simulation, Artem Anisimov will be the first player to light the lamp, scoring a power-play goal at 10:35 of the first period from Derek Stepan and Brad Richards.

While the Flyers come out on top on the scoreboard, the Rangers get the best performance of the game -- not surprisingly from Henrik Lundqvist, who comes up with 32 saves in the losing effort.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Citizens Bank Park Ice Rink Build To Be Finished Friday In Preparation For Winter Classic 2012

Over the last two weeks, as the NHL crew has set up the ice rink on the field at Citizens Bank Park, the elements haven't really been much of an issue. It's been unseasonably warm and sunny for a bit of that time, but outside of one night of rain this past Tuesday and a ridiculous day of wind on Wednesday, the weather has been cooperative in Philadelphia.

But that just goes to show you how a wrench can be thrown into things so quickly. Dan Craig, the NHL's ice guru, spoke to the media today from the ballpark, telling NHL.com that things as simple as a sunny day have changed around the plans.

"They said partly cloudy, and I don't see partly cloudy at all," Craig told NHL.com at 12:30 Thursday afternoon. "It just comes down to getting it done one way or the other. One day we get cloud cover and three-quarters of an inch of rain. The next day we're supposed to be building and we get 40 mile-per-hour winds. And then the next day we're supposed to be doing logos and lines and we got bright sunshine."

Those logos and lines on the ice will be done by Friday morning, even if it takes crews showing up early in the morning to get the work in. The ice has to be set properly as well by about 11 a.m. ET.

At noon on Friday, the media will have the opportunity to skate on the ice, and while that's super awesome for people like me, it's actually an important step in the process, as it's the first time that a large number of people will put wear on the surface.

For Craig, getting the ice as good as it can be come Saturday afternoon, when the Alumni Game is set for a 1 p.m. puck drop in front of a sell out crowd and a national TV audience, is the real key. Hopefully the elements cooperate on Friday morning.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

2012 Winter Classic Contingency Plan Calls For Late Start Time, Tuesday Game If Necessary

It looks as though the weather is going to cooperate for the 2012 Winter Classic in Philadelphia on Monday, but if it decides to act up, the NHL has a contingency plan in place. It's pretty similar to the plan that went into effect when rain hampered the 1 p.m. scheduled start time at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh last New Year's Day.

Via the Canadian Press:

In the event of inclement weather or poor ice conditions, [NHL executive John] Collins says the contingency plan includes moving the start time back to late afternoon or evening on Jan. 2 or possibly pushing it back to Jan. 3 "if the day really is bad."

"But it doesn't look like we're going to have that kind off issue this year," he added.

It doesn't, indeed. Weather forecasts earlier this week were grim, calling for a 60 percent chance of rain, but that's cleared up as the week has progressed and it's now looking like the game will get in just fine at the normally scheduled start time. But, just in case it doesn't happen, you can rest assured that the NHL has a plan.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012 Weather Forecast Much Better As Game Day Nears

We weren't worried too much about the Winter Classic weather forecast on Monday, even though it called for a 60 percent chance of rain for January 2 in Philadelphia. It was a week early. It's hard to project things from that far out.

And as the week has progressed -- we're now just four days from game day -- the weather.com forecast has improved dramatically.

It's dropped to a 30 percent chance of rain to a 30 percent chance of snow showers and now, just a 20 percent chance of any form of precipitation. It's looking more like it's just going to be an overcast, windy day in the low 40s come game time at 1 p.m. this coming Monday. Via weather.com:

The crew at Citizens Bank Park was able to paint the logos and the lines on the ice Thursday morning in preparation for the game, and the ice will be skated on for the first time on Friday when the media -- including us -- get a chance to take a spin. We'll obviously be chiming in with updates from our experience, as well as the quality of the ice, on Friday.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers, Episode 3 Recap: Steve Ott Reads NHL.com, Jody Shelley Is 'Irrelevant'

Episode 3 of HBO 24/7 Flyers/Rangers got us closer to the action than perhaps any other installment of the series so far, providing us with insight on injuries, players on the rebound from awful seasons, and yes, all the chirping we could ever ask for.

Winter Classic 2012 Schedule, Game Time And More

There are always several festivities associated with the Winter Classic, the NHL's annual game in an outdoor arena that always makes for a a must-see event, whether on television or in person. The festivities kick off with a game between alumni of the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers, the teams that will face each other in the actual game, which will be broadcast nationally on Versus at 1 p.m. on New Year's Eve.

Playing the alumni game for the Flyers will be, among others, Jeremy Roenick, Eric Lindros, John LeClair and Mark Howe, coached by Pat Quinn. The Rangers' squad will include Mark Messier, Brian Leetch, Adam Graves and Ron Duquay, coached by Rangers legend Mike Keenan, who also coached the Flyers, will coach the squad.

The game itself figures to be a fun one, too — though it won't feature Roenick, Lindros, Messier and Leetch, regrettably — since the Rangers and Flyers, as of Wednesday, are Nos. 1 and 2 in the Eastern Conference standings, and are clear contenders for the Stanley Cup nearing the halfway mark of the season.

Game Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 2, 1 p.m. ET

Location: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pa.

TV: NBC (National), CBC (Canada)

For continued updates and analysis of both these teams, visit Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey and Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter.

Rangers Vs. Capitals: Washington Makes Statement In 4-1 Win Over New York

The Caps made a statement Wednesday by cooling off the red hot Rangers in a 4-1 win.

New York Rangers Atop East Thanks To Fresh Defensive Contributions

Marc Staal has been out of the lineup all year for the New York Rangers. Most teams don't get better defensively when losing their best defenseman, so what's the deal at Madison Square Garden? It's not all Henrik Lundqvist.

Winter Classic 2012: Weather Forecast For January 2 Now Includes Chance Of Snow Showers

NHL.com's Dan Rosen reported in a video on Tuesday afternoon from Citizens Bank Park that according to Don Renzulli of the league's events department, the forecast for Winter Classic game day was "clear." Perhaps they have more information at their fingertips than Weather.com makes public six days early, or perhaps things have just altered since that report, but in any event, there's a bit of a discrepancy.

According to Weather.com, there's now a chance of snow showers next Monday in Philadelphia.

Obviously, we'd rather have snow than any other form of precipitation. The Zamboni can clear snow -- that's actually its main function. Rain, however, presents a problem in terms of ice quality and player safety, not to mention the awful glare that reflected off the ice last year at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field, making a made for TV event a little more difficult to watch on TV.

But the forecast has consistently improved each day so far this week, falling from a 60 percent chance of rain to a 30 percent chance to a chance of rain and snow showers. We'll keep an eye on it.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

PHOTO: Empire State Building To Light Up For NHL Winter Classic

NHL Winter Classic History: In A Sense, It Began In The Las Vegas Desert

The NHL's modern tradition of outdoor games began 20 years ago with Wayne Gretzky and Kings vs. the pre-Mark Messier New York Rangers. In the desert of Las Vegas. Now, it's an annual made-for-television event.

Flyers Vs. Lightning: Stamkos, Bolts Strike Down Bryzgalov, Philly, 5-1

An opportunistic Lightning offense in scoring five times on just 16 shots on goal, while the Flyers could only capitalize once on 32 shots on Mathieu Garon, en route to a 5-1 torching of Ilya Bryzgalov and the Philadelphia Flyers Tuesday night.

Mike Milbury Will Return To NBC For Winter Classic

Mike Milbury was charged with assaulting a 12-year-old boy in early December, but the charges were dropped. With the charges dropped, Milbury will return to his studio analyst role with NBC Sports.

Winter Classic Weather Forecast Improves, But Rain Still An Obstacle

Rain in Philadelphia on Tuesday is keeping the NHL's ice crew down, as well as keeping us away from our first live, in-person look at the progress on the field and around Citizens Bank Park, but we'll be at the ballpark beginning Wednesday with updates from the scene.

In the mean time, while the crew continues to try and build ice under the threat of rain, they're also looking down the line to game day, when rain also threatens the Winter Classic. The forecast looked grim on Monday, when weather.com projected a 60 percent chance of rain and temperatures of 45 degrees.

A day later, there's already good news, and it just goes to show how quickly weather forecasts can change. Via weather.com yet again:

Down to "few showers" and only a 30 percent chance of precipitation, under the same cloudy skies and 45 degree temperatures. That's acceptable, and hopefully as the week progresses, that chance of rain continues to dwindle. You can't move hockey pucks through puddles.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic 2012: Patti LaBelle To Sing National Anthem

Philadelphia native Patti LaBelle will be singing the national anthem when the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers face off in the NHL Winter Classic, according to Flyers beat writer Anthony J. SanFilippo. The Flyers, like many teams in the NHL, have a regular singer of the national anthem. That singer, Lauren Hart, will perform God Bless America at some point during the game, in a similar fashion to baseball games. Which is appropriate, seeing as the game is being held at a baseball stadium and the Flyers wouldn't want to exclude Lauren Hart from proceedings.

As a Philadelphia native, LaBelle has sang at other Philadelphia sporting events on multiple occasions. Some hardcore Flyers fans might not be too happy that tradition is being messed with, but Hart will still get a chance to sing and some national TV face time.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey. For everything Winter Classic in the build-up to the game, head over to our NHL Winter Classic StoryStream.

Winter Classic Alumni Game: Adam Graves 'Humbled' By Opportunity To Play Again

Adam Graves has been humbled many times before in his career. He's won the Stanley Cup twice and his number hangs in the rafters at Madison Square Garden, but when he laces up the skates on New Year's Eve to play in the 2012 Winter Classic Alumni Game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, it'll be another great moment.

Graves spoke with Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter in the build-up to the game.

"I think for me to describe it in one word it would be humbling," he said. "I think most of my experiences as a Ranger has been humbling. To be able to play behind arguably one of the top four or five guys to ever play the game in Mark Messier, to be able to play on the Garden's ice and to winning a Stanley Cup in New York and playing for an original six team is a privilege. And every time you wear that jersey that's exactly what you're feeling and December 31st will be no different."

Check the full interview over at Blueshirt Banter.

For more on the Alumni Game and everything else surrounding the 2012 Winter Classic between the Flyers and Rangers, check in with our StoryStream.

Islanders Vs. Rangers: Blueshirts Grab East Lead As Lundqvist Blanks Isles, 3-0

The New York Rangers moved past the idle Boston Bruins into the top spot in the East on the strength of two goals from Carl Hagelin, and a perfect 28-save performance from goaltender Henrik Lundqvist in a 3-0 blanking of the crosstown rival Islanders.

Winter Classic Alumni Game Will Be Televised By Versus, CBC

For the first time in the history of the NHL Winter Classic, the alumni game held every year before the main event will be televised. Fans will get to watch former greats of the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers face off at 1:00 p.m. ET on Dec. 31 on the Versus Network in the United States, CBC in Canada, and Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia for those in the Philly area. The MSG Network will show the game on tape delay at 4:00 p.m. in the New York area.

Announcing the game will be a collaborative effort, with CSN Philadelphia's Jim Jackson doing play-by-play, CBC and NHL Network contributor Kevin Weekes providing analysis, MSG's Al Trautwig covering the Rangers bench and CSN Philadelphia's Steve Coates covering the Flyers.

This year's lineups include Bob Clarke, Eric Lindros and Jeremy Roenick for the Flyers, and Mark Messier, Brian Leetch and Mike Gartner for the Rangers. Legends Pat Quinn and Mike Keenan will be roaming the benches for the Flyers and Rangers, respectively.

For more on this year's game, head over to SB Nation's Rangers blog, Blueshirt Banter, and Flyers blog, Broad Street Hockey.

Marc Staal Injury: Rangers Defenseman Cleared For Contact, Won't Rule Out Winter Classic Return

Marc Staal was cleared for contact Monday as he continues his slow recovery from a concussion suffered last February. He hopes to return to the Rangers' lineup in time for the 2012 Winter Classic against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Winter Classic Weather Update: Early Forecast Calls For Rain January 2

The Winter Classic is a week away, and the initial weather report for Citizens Bank Park on Monday, January 2 isn't comforting for those who want to see NHL hockey played that day. According to weather.com, there's a 60 percent chance of rain for the Winter Classic.

It's obviously still an early forecast, so we'll be sure to keep an eye out on things as the week progresses. The one slightly encouraging sign is that it's not supposed to be 60 degrees on January 2, considering the unseasonably warm temperatures that have struck the Philadelphia area and much of the mid-Atlantic region over the last several weeks.

45 degrees isn't a bad temperature for sitting outside and watching a hockey game. But rain? That's a whole different animal, and as we learned last year in Pittsburgh, it can severely alter the game. The 2011 contest at Heinz Field was pushed from a 1 p.m. start to an evening start due to rain, and water still fell on the ice periodically as the Capitals and Penguins played under the lights. The playing conditions were not ideal.

Hopefully Mother Nature cooperates a little bit better in 2012, but the early forecasts aren't all that promising.

For more on the 2012 NHL Winter Classic, check in with Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey, Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter and our StoryStream.

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers, Episode 2 Recap: John Tortorella Up Close, Injuries, 'Typical Montreal'

Ilya Bryzgalov of the Philadelphia Flyers was again the star of Episode 2 in HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers, but John Tortorella stole some of that spotlight this time around. Also, conspiracy in Montreal isn't just something fans believe.

Winter Classic 2012: With Boards In Place, Rink Takes Shape At Citizens Bank Park

The Winter Classic rink at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia is taking shape this Wednesday, as the crew on the playing surface is busy erecting the boards that actually make the baseball stadium look ready for hockey. Adam Kimelman of NHL.com has some photos.

The first section getting locked in place...

And a few hours later, a wide view from the temporary bleachers in the outfield, already up and ready for the game:

Slowly but surely, Citizens Bank Park is getting ready for hockey. Rain in Philadelphia forced some setbacks on Tuesday, but things seem on track. TV towers are being set up in the outfield, according to Kimelman on NHL.com, a stage will go up in left field and banners and signage are starting to poke their way out of boxes and into the light of the ballpark. 

Once the boards are up and the piping is run under the playing surface, the next step is to pipe in the coolant from the refrigeration truck that sits on the street outside of the stadium. Once that's ready, it's time to make ice. It's really incredible how quickly this all comes together. 

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers Ratings Fall From 2011 Show, But Still Not Bad

The 2011 edition of HBO's 24/7 series dedicated to the two NHL teams participating in the league's Winter Classic — this season, the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers — opened to lower ratings than the 2010 iteration. The premiere of 24/7 Rangers/Flyers: Road to the NHL Winter Classic garnered 284,000 viewers last Wednesday, down from 383,000 viewers for the premiere episode of the 2010 series that focused on the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals.

That's not bad in terms of HBO's viewership, according to Puck the Media's Steve Lepore — other original programming on the cable channel during the week, like Englightened and the recently cancelled Bored to Death, can draw even fewer viewers. If the NHL and HBO are likely to worry about anything pertaining to 24/7's ratings, it will likely be the year-to-year dropoff, despite the teams being from the larger New York and Philadelphia media markets.

For more on the Flyers, visit Broad Street Hockey. For more on the Rangers, visit Blueshirt Banter.

Winter Classic Goalie Masks Unveiled: Ilya Bryzgalov, Henrik Lundqvist Get Custom Paint Jobs

The Winter Classic is the perfect opportunity for players to spoil themselves with new gear, and honestly, we'd all be a little disappointed if the game didn't mean new-look goalie equipment for Ilya Bryzgalov of the Philadelphia Flyers and Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers.

Luckily, we won't have to deal with that disappointment. On his Twitter feed Monday, Lundqvist unveiled his mask for the January 2 outdoor game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. He's uh, going for the classic look.

Ilya Bryzgalov's mask, although not 100 percent complete, was unveiled in a video on the Flyers website. It features a number of different Philadelphia sports legends, including Reggie White, Julius Erving, Mike Schmidt and Joe Frazier. 

Bryzgalov only has one mask, and he'll auction it off for charity following the game. Lundqvist has two masks and will keep one for himself, auctioning off the other for charity. 

For more on Rangers, check in with our blog Blueshirt Banter. For more on the Flyers, check in with Broad Street Hockey.

Winter Classic 2012: Rink Build Continues, Refrigeration Truck Arrives

The Winter Classic is in exactly two weeks at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, and while the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers continue with their December schedules, the NHL officially took over the ballpark on Monday in preparation for the game and all the festivities that surround it.

The league's state-of-the-art refrigeration truck is on scene, parked outside the ballpark on Hartranft Street. Piping from the truck will run out of the truck into the stadium through a window, according to Dan Rosen of NHL.com, and then it will travel 450 feet across the center field concourse and down a long Erector set-looking channel to field level. 

Citizens Bank Park proves a unique challenge for the crew building the rink, as the field is substantially lower than street level. At Wrigley Field and Fenway Park, the field is much closer to the street, both in distance and height, but it's not an issue that's insurmountable. Dan Craig, the NHL's ice guru, just has to figure out the right calculations in that extremely complicated ice truck. 

This is the big week for the rink build crew. Boards will go up soon, and temporary bleachers have already been set up in the outfield at the ballpark. The hope is that the crew will be able to return home for Christmas next weekend, returning to put on the finishing touches next week. 

For more on the Winter Classic and HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers, stick with this StoryStream.

HBO 24/7 Flyers-Rangers Recap, Episode 1: Ilya Bryzgalov, Ryan Callahan's Grandma Steal Show

HBO's 24/7 series following the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers debuted Wednesday night, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Ilya Bryzgalov's comments about tigers and the universe will go down in YouTube lore, while Ryan Callahan's grandma might be the greatest person alive.

HBO 24/7 Flyers Vs. Rangers Airdates: Winter Classic Show Debuts Wednesday Night

HBO's 24/7 Flyers-Rangers: Road To The NHL Winter Classic debuts on Wednesday night, and the first episode will air a total of 19 times on HBO and HBO2. The hour-long debut is at 10 p.m. ET/PT, and it re-airs immediately following the debut, as well as 17 other times.

HBO airdates:
Dec. 14: 11:00 p.m.
Dec. 15: 5:45 p.m., midnight
Dec. 16: 11:30 a.m., 8:00 p.m.
Dec. 17: 10:00 a.m., 10:45 p.m.
Dec. 18: 10:00 a.m.
Dec. 1: 6:30 p.m., 2:55 a.m.
Dec. 31: 10:00 a.m.
Jan. 1: 9:00 a.m.
Jan. 2: 6:45 a.m. and 1:55 a.m.

HBO2 airdates:
Dec. 18: 11:00 p.m.
Dec. 20: 8:00 p.m.
Jan. 2: 8:00 a.m.

The subsequent two episodes will debut on recurring Wednesday evenings, each with their own replay dates. The finale will air on Thursday, January 5, just three days after the Winter Classic at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on January 2. HBO On Demand and HBOGO availability for the series begins on December 19. 

For complete coverage of the 2012 Winter Classic and HBO 24/7, stick with this StoryStream. 

Winter Classic 2012: Bernie Parent Will Wear A Mask, But Which Mask?

Bernie Parent will be playing for the Philadelphia Flyers in the Winter Classic Alumni Game, if only for a few minutes, and in that time, he will indeed wear a mask on his face, as is common practice for men getting pucks thrown at them. But the question at this point is exactly what that mask will look like.

Parent never wore a modern-style mask during his Hall of Fame career, so he would look really strange in a modern looking mask. Parent wrote on his blog a week back that he'd be wearing his 1974 style mask.

I can't begin to tell you how overwhelming the response to yesterdays announcement that I will be playing in the Winter Classic Alumni game on December 31, 2011. There have been a lot of e mails sent asking all kind of questions the most being what mask I will be wearing. Well the answer is my 1974 Fibro.

Ah, perfect. He'll wear the mask he made famous. Or maybe he won't. Via CSN Philly's Sarah Baicker:

For those curious: Bernie Parent WILL have a custom painted goalie mask for the Winter Classic alumni game.

Who knows? Maybe it's going to be a hybrid of the two. Maybe the report is wrong and Bernie is right on his site. Maybe he changed his mind after that initial blog post. We'll find out for sure on December 30 when the Flyers alumni hold a full practice for the first (and only) time.

HBO 24/7 Flyers Vs. Rangers: Five Things To Watch In Wednesday's Show Debut

HBO's 24/7 show debuts on Wednesday night, following the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers in the run-up to the Winter Classic. Here are five things to watch in episode one.

Winter Classic 2012: Citizens Bank Park Rink Construction A Challenge

The Winter Classic will be held in a baseball stadium for the third time in its five-year history this season when the Philadelphia Flyers host the New York Rangers at Citizens Bank Park on January 2.

It's the first of those ballparks that's been built in the modern era, and that's actually proving to be more of a challenge than older, historic venues like Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. We'll let NHL.com explain:

The 23-feet of elevation from the field level to beyond the center field fence, where the NHL's refrigeration truck will be parked, is the most Craig has worked with in building an NHL rink. He also anticipates the truck will be parked 425 feet from the playing surface, which is the furthest distance away a refrigeration unit has ever been from the ice surface for an NHL game.    

It makes sense if you think about it. Those old ballparks tend not to have much concourse space in the outfield, where the refrigeration truck typically parks. Modern facilities have much more to do out there -- games, restaurants, Walls of Fame, aisles and aisles of bleacher seats, etc. 

Prep is ongoing at the ballpark, now in full swing less than three weeks before the game. The ice has to be ready by December 31 at the latest for the Alumni Game between the Flyers and Rangers, but almost certainly before then to work out all the kinks. The plan is to have the first coat of ice down before Christmas Eve, thus allowing the crew to return home for the holiday before returning to put on the finishing touches.

For more on the Winter Classic and HBO's 24/7 series, stick with this StoryStream. 

Winter Classic 2012: HBO 24/7 Cameras Do Not Please John Tortorella

HBO's groundbreaking series 24/4: Road To The NHL Winter Classic debuts on Wednesday night, and the first episode will focus on the paths the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers have taken over the last week to 10 days or so.

HBO cameras have been embedded with the teams for that time, and Rangers head coach John Tortorella doesn't exactly like the extra attention. Via the Bergen Record:

"Oh, it's a pain in the ass, there's no question. I can't stand it but it doesn't affect my coaching. They're good guys. I just don't want people in our locker room but I know we have to do it. It hasn't affected how we go about our business. I just don't agree with it but it's probably going to be a hell of a show when all's said and done.

I don't even see them, that's where they're really good. We had talked to Pittsburgh and Washington and they said you won't even notice them and we don't, they're good about that. But I still think it's an invasion of privacy. I don't think they should be in the locker room."    

At least he understands that "we have to do it," but frankly, Tortorella comes off as a bit of a curmudgeon here. Everybody in the hockey world loves HBO's show, as it's given us a window into the world of the game that nobody ever gets to see unless you're employed by the organization.

Cameras and attention are only a distraction if you allow them to be. The Washington Capitals went through a huge losing streak while the cameras were in their room last season, and they never once complained about their presence. Tortorella probably should stop complaining. Or just complain some more with the cameras rolling. That'll be fine too. 

Brandon Dubinsky, Jody Shelley And The Winter Classic War Of Words

New York Rangers Winter Classic Jerseys Unveiled Monday At Central Park

In a lengthy ceremony at Central Park on Monday afternoon, the New York Rangers unveiled their Winter Classic jerseys, which their wear on January 2 when they take on the Philadelphia Flyers outdoors at Citizens Bank Park in Philly.

Via the Rangers on Facebook:

It's a pretty simple look for the Rangers, who are going back to the logo they used back in the 1920s. They're using the same vintage white that highlights the jerseys the Flyers are wearing, and they obviously stick with the same overall vintage style that's taken over every Winter Classic jersey to date. Also like the Flyers, they're keeping the Winter Classic logo on the shoulder, instead of on the chest like it's been for other teams in previous years.

It's hard to mess up a classic-looking jersey design, and the Rangers certainly didn't take any risks here with these. For that reason, it's hard to find something to complain about. They're nice and simple, just like the Flyers', and they'll look good on January 2. 

For more from the Rangers' perspective, check in with our blog, Blueshirt Banter.

Winter Classic Alumni Game Rosters Announced: Flyers, Rangers Vets To Take Outdoor Ice

To fans of the Philadelphia Flyers, the Winter Classic Alumni Game might just be more exciting to them than the actual NHL regular season game that'll take place outdoors on January 2. For fans of their opponent, the New York Rangers, the excitement for the old-timers game might not bring the same level of excitement.

The two teams announced their rosters for the outdoor Alumni Game, which will be held at 4 p.m. ET on December 31, two days before the Winter Classic at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park. A complete list:

Philadelphia Flyers

Forwards: Bill Barber, Bob Clarke, Jim Dowd, Orest Kindrachuk, Eric Lindros, Ken Linseman, Dave Poulin, Jeremy Roenick, Al Hill, Bob Kelly, John LeClair, Shjon Podein, Brian Propp, Reggie Leach, Mark Recchi, Rick Tocchet

Defensemen: Terry Carkner, Eric Desjardins, Larry Goodenough, Derian Hatcher, Mark Howe, Brad Marsh, Kjell Samuelsson, Chris Therien, Joe Watson

Goaltenders: Mark LaForest and Neil Little

Coaches: Pat Quinn (head coach), Mike Nykoluk and Keith Primeau (assistant coaches)

Ambassadors: Gary Dornhoefer, Bernie Parent, Dave Schultz

New York Rangers

Goalies: Dan Blackburn, John Vanbiesbrouck

Defensemen: Ron Greschner, Darius Kasparaitis, Tom Laidlaw, Brian Leetch, Dave Maloney, Dale Purinton, Mathieu Schneider

Forwards: Glenn Anderson, Paul Broten, Ron Duguay, Nick Fotiu, Mike Gartner, Adam Graves, Pat Hickey, Kris King, Nick Kypreos, Darren Langdon, Stephane Matteau, Brian Mullen, Darren Turcotte

Coaches: Mike Keenan, Emile Francis, Colin Campbell

Ambassadors: Rod Gilbert, Ed Giacomin, Harry Howell

The Flyers roster consists of a ton of team legends. Both of the organization's Stanley Cup teams are well represented, three Hall of Famers, a few potential future Hall of Famers, and several former team captains. One of the most famous lines in team history -- the LCB line of Bob Clarke, Reggie Leach and Bill Barber -- will be reunited on the ice, as will two-thirds of the Legion of Doom line that dominated teams for years in the 1990s.

The only underwhelming thing from the Flyers perspective is the goaltenders, which is kind of fitting given that this is Philadelphia we're talking about here. Mark LaForest played just 38 regular season games for the club, and while Neil Little spent almost his entire professional career in Philly, he did it across the parking lot with the AHL's Phantoms. Little only played two games for the NHL club in his career.

As for the Rangers, there's the excitement of Brian Leetch and Adam Graves, but without Mike Richter, Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky, the New York side of things doesn't carry the same luster as the Philly side. Messier still hopes to play, but that depends on recovery from an upcoming shoulder surgery. Gretzky will not play.

Of course, this all means that the Rangers will probably blow the Flyers out of the water. But that'll be seen on New Year's Eve. The best news of all, perhaps, is that the game will be broadcast live on television this year. Versus will pick up the full broadcast. In previous years, NHL Network televised a recap with expanded highlights and there was a live feed on the Internet, but there was no live coverage on television.

Winter Classic Jerseys Unveiled By Philadelphia Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers unveiled their jerseys for the Winter Classic on Monday morning inside the Phillies clubhouse at Citizens Bank Park. The new duds feature plenty of fancy black trim, though it could not be confirmed whether the captains' "C" and "A" would be encased in a keystone logo to honor the state of Pennsylvania, as had been rumored. Chris Pronger, Daniel Briere and Kimmo Timonen were not on hand to model, unfortunately.

Travis Hughes of the SB Nation blog Broad Street Hockey was at the event to snap some photos. 

via Travis Hughes

The New York Rangers have yet to unveil what they're wearing to the Classic, nor has the team hinted at what the jerseys may look like. Faceoff for the Classic is set for 1:00 p.m. Eastern on January 2 in the outdoor confines of Citizens Bank Park. The event had to be pushed back from it's usual New Year's Day slot due to a scheduling conflict with the NFL.

For more on the Flyers' new duds, check in with Broad Street Hockey. For more on the Rangers, visit Blueshirt Banter.

Philadelphia Flyers Winter Classic Jerseys To Be Unveiled Monday Morning

The Philadelphia Flyers will finally unveil their Winter Classic jerseys at a press event in the Phillies clubhouse at Citizens Bank Park on Monday morning at 11:30 a.m ET. The New York Rangers Winter Classic jerseys will not be unveiled at the event -- unless there's some sort of surprise in store.

There's been a ton of speculation over the last several months about what exactly the Flyers will be wearing, and we have a lot of clues. We think the jerseys will be orange with vintage white accents, and a leak from the NHL Shop shows that the 'C' and 'A' on the chest will be inside a keystone, an ode to Pennsylvania, the Keystone State.

We'll learn the exact identity of the jerseys at 11:30 ET on Monday morning, but there's a pretty good idea for you right there. Follow along with us at SB Nation's Philadelphia Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey for live updates from the unveiling.

Eric Lindros Will Join Flyers In Winter Classic Alumni Game

Eric Lindros has long had a shaky relationship with the Philadelphia Flyers organization, but it appears as though bygones will be made bygones at the end of December when Lindros returns to the ice in Philly as part of the Winter Classic.

He confirmed to FAN590 in Toronto on Wednesday morning that he'll indeed play. Cue the excitement. You can listen to the interview here, or just read the important parts here:

Paul Holmgren gave me a shout about a month and a half ago and we talked back and forth a little bit, and I was real happy to hear his voice and get the invitation. I told him a while back that I would fly down and have some fun.

I hadn't seen Johnny [LeClair] in a while. I know they're trying to get in touch with Mikael [Renberg]. I've been trying myself, if for some reason you're listening. I think you might be sleeping.

The old Legion of Doom line could be reunited, and the Flyers are also planning on reuniting the old LCB line of Bobby Clarke, Reggie Leach and Bill Barber according to a report from Pierre LeBrun. The New York Rangers can counter with the likes of Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Adam Graves and Brian Leetch, among others.

This could be the best alumni game yet.

VIDEO: Glen Sather Promises A Little Bit Of Everything At Winter Classic Press Conference

Glen Sather put the heat on John Tortorella on Monday afternoon, claiming not only that the New York Rangers will win the 2012 Winter Classic against the Philadelphia Flyers, but that they'll also win the 2012 Stanley Cup. Oh, and Joe Girardi: Sather guaranteed in front of the Philly crowd that the Yankees are going to win the World Series, too, so... you know, no pressure. 

Sather got into a bit of a playful war of words with Flyers owner Ed Snider following his guarantee, saying how he remembered beating Philadelphia a few times on the way to a few Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers in the 1980s.

"I respect the fans in Philadelphia," said Sather. "I'm sorry that we kicked the hell out of you twice in the Stanley Cup. We're going to do the same thing on the 2nd. At the end of the year we will be carrying the Cup, just like the Yankees are going to have the World Championship, as well."

"All kidding aside, thank you very much. It's been a very warm welcome for us, and we do expect to give you some challenges. Thank you very much."

Snider wasn't going to let him get off that easily.

"When he says, 'We kicked the hell out of you in two Stanley Cups,' he wasn't talking the Rangers," said Snider. "I remember kicking the hell out of the Rangers on the way to our Cups."

Winter Classic 2012 Will Be Rangers Vs. Flyers, NHL Confirms

The Philadelphia Flyers will host the New York Rangers at Citizens Bank Ballpark in the 2012 Winter Classic on Jan. 2, the NHL announced on Monday. Citizens Bank Ballpark is the home of the Philadelphia Phillies and continues a relatively new annual tradition of hosting regular-season hockey games in outdoor facilities around the New Year. 

This will be the fifth edition of the Winter Classic, which was first played in 2008. This will be the third time that the game has been played in a baseball stadium, with Fenway Park and Wrigley Field hosting the 2009 and 2010 versions. This will be the second time the Flyers have participated in the game and the second straight year that the game will be held in Pennsylvania as last year's game was played at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field.

"The Rangers-Flyers rivalry is one of our very best," said Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner. "It is only a short distance from Broadway to Broad Street, and over the years, these not-so-neighborly teams have provided an assortment of memorable games. I have every expectation that the 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic will provide more great moments to remember."

The NHL will surely be hoping for better weather than they got last year, when fear of rain caused the game to be moved from the originally scheduled 1 p.m. start time to 8 p.m. 

Winter Classic Jerseys For Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers Could Be Unveiled Monday

The Winter Classic announcement comes with literally no suspense attached to it at all this Monday. We know that the game will be played between the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. We know that the game will be played on Monday, January 2. 

We know... basically everything. But what could inject some excitement into Monday's press event at the ballpark? Jerseys, of course, and it's expected that the NHL will unveil the jerseys that are to be worn by each club in the fourth-annual outdoor game. 

We don't have many clues on what the teams could wear. The Rangers have a rather extensive catalog of sweaters from their history that they could pop out for a return, while the Flyers have turned their jerseys from the 2010 Winter Classic into their everyday uniforms.

Philadelphia doesn't have many other sweaters they can choose from, so it's possible we could see the creation of a new uniform like the Boston Bruins threw together for the 2010 game. It's already known that the Rangers will employ the logo used back in the 1930's for the game, but the jerseys worn by the team there look almost identical to the ones they wear now.

There's a lot of speculation out there about this jersey news, and if the NHL wants Monday's announcement to carry any sort of excitement, they'll end all of that speculation once and for all. 

For more on the Flyers, check in with Broad Street Hockey. For more on the Rangers, visit Blueshirt Banter.

Winter Classic 2012 Logo Leaks As NHL Schedules Monday Announcement

The NHL has just announced that it will hold a really big press event at Citizens Bank Ballpark in Philadelphia on Monday with news that may or may not have something to do with the giant Winter Classic logo that was leaked to the media via jumbotron featuring the team logos of the Philadelphia Flyers and the New York Rangers.

While the league loses points for its not-so subtlety in this instance, they have done a nice job pulling off the Winter Classic over the last four seasons. The buildup to this year's game will reportedly include a "24/7" series through HBO and will be held on January 2 to avoid conflict with a full slate of NFL matchups on New Year's Day.

The announcement will be broadcast live via your choice of the NHL Network, NHL.com, PhiladelphiaFlyers.com, NewYorkRangers.com and Phillies.com.

For more reactions to the upcoming announcement, check out SB Nation's Flyers blog Broad Street Hockey and Rangers blog Blueshirt Banter. 

Winter Classic 2012 Details Leaked, Including Plans For Alumni, AHL Games

We expected the official announcement of the 2012 Winter Classic between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers to come Thursday, off the heels of a Philadelphia Daily News report last week. Alas, there are still kinks to be worked out between the NHL and the Philadelphia Phillies, who operate Citizens Bank Park where the game is scheduled to be played. 

So, nothing official just yet. That doesn't mean we aren't learning more and more about the NHL's fifth annual outdoor showcase with each passing day. Discovered by Puck Daddy, a Flyers charity auction has leaked some of the details of the event. The Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation is auctioning off a package of tickets to the Winter Classic and all the surrounding events.

Winter Classic Spectacular - Four  (4) VIP tickets (with parking) to the 2012 Winter Classic at Citizens Bank Park on January 2, 2012.  Package also includes 4 VIP tickets to the 2011 New Year's Eve Alumni Classic and the January 6, 2012 Phantoms game (both played outdoors at Citizens Bank Park).  The lucky winner will also receive an autographed Winter Classic jersey from Danny Briere and 4 passes to participate in one of the public skating sessions on the Winter Classic ice.

For more on the Flyers, check in with Broad Street Hockey, and for more on the Rangers, be sure to visit Blueshirt Banter.

Winter Classic 2012: NHL To Finally Announce Flyers Vs. Rangers Outdoor Game At Citizens Bank Park

The 2012 Winter Classic has long been rumored to be a matchup between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers. Three months later, however, the NHL is set to formally announce the game.

The Flyers and Rangers game on January 2 will be officially announced by the league next week, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. The fifth annual outdoor game is scheduled to take place at Citizens Bank Park.

The reason that the game's announcement was delayed so long is because the Philadelphia Phillies had to sign off on their baseball stadium having hockey played in it.

The Phillies are expected to finally sign off on the rental terms for Citizens Bank Park to make the deal "done and documented," the source said. NHL officials have visited Citizens Bank Park numerous times over the past few weeks to hammer out the details.

The Daily News expects that tickets, which should be hot sellers, will go on sale following the official announcement of the outdoor game.

Penn State, Neumann University To Play Outdoors As Part Of 2012 NHL Winter Classic

The NHL schedule was released on June 23, and on it, there was a 1 p.m. game on the list between the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers on January 2.

The teams and the league haven't officially said that the game is the 2012 Winter Classic, but several reports have confirmed as much, and besides, how many games are there at 1 p.m. on a weekday? Not to mention the fact that HBO has also confirmed that the two teams will be featured in their mid-season 24/7: Road To The Winter Classic documentary in December. 

The Winter Classic will be held in Philadelphia at Citizens Bank Park on January 2. We know this, although we don't know what the hell the NHL is waiting for in announcing it officially. As if we needed more confirmation, here's this from Penn State University's club ice hockey team on Wednesday:

Two days after the Flyers and Rangers take part in the 2012 Winter Classic at Citizen's Bank Park, the Penn State Icers will get their chance at playing on the same, grand stage.

The Icers will face NCAA Division 3 Neumann University on Wednesday, January 4th at 7 PM. 

So, there's that. Penn State hockey isn't a Division 1 program, but they will be in 2013 when a new arena is built on their State College campus and a program is started, thanks to an $88 million donation from new Buffalo Sabres owner and PSU alum Terry Pegula. That, along with the pending realignment of college hockey in the wake of Penn State's D1 addition, has put the school on the hockey map in recent months.

Neumann University won the NCAA Division 3 National Championship in 2009. They're located in Aston, Penn., just a few minutes outside of Philadelphia. 

This whole including-college-teams-in-the-Winter-Classic thing has become a staple at the outdoor game in recent years. In 2010, when the Flyers took on the Boston Bruins at Fenway Park, Boston College and Boston University played a game on the ice prior to the big showcase on January 1.

In 2011, when the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals played at Heinz Field, Robert Morris University played Rochester Institute of Technology inside at the Pens' normal home, CONSOL Energy Center, as a preview event to the Winter Classic. 

For more on the Flyers, check in with Broad Street Hockey. For more on Penn State athletics, check SB Nation's Black Shoe Diaries.

Philadelphia Flyers To Host New York Rangers In 2012 Winter Classic, According To Report

Outdoor hockey is reportedly coming to Philadelphia as the 2012 NHL Winter Classic rolls into town. The Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers are expected to take the ice at Citizens Bank Park in front of upwards of 40,000 raucous hockey fans. The Winter Class is the NHL's premier non-Stanley Cup event and is the cornerstone of a week of outdoor hockey in the host city.

According to a report from the South Jersey Courier-Post, plans to play at Lincoln Financial Field were scratched due to the Philadelphia Eagles regular season finale, but the home of the Phillies is open.

The NHL was hoping to have the Flyers face the Rangers at 68,532-seat Lincoln Financial Field on Jan.‚1, but the Eagles are hosting the Washington Redskins at 1 p.m. that day in their regular-season finale.

According to an NHL source, Phillies president David Montgomery has given the league permission to construct a hockey rink on the infield of Citizens Bank Park, which seats 43,500 fans.

Additionally, the 24/7 series following the buildup to the event is also expected to make a return for the 2012 Winter Classic. This would be the Flyers second Winter Classic appearance and the Rangers' first. New York was the final Big Six team to have not participated in the event.

For more on the Winter Classic and the teams reportedly involved, head over to SB Nation Philly and Broad Street Hockey for Flyers news or SB Nation New York and Blueshirt Banter for Rangers news.