BUFFALO – The Sabres will likely play the New York Rangers outdoors in the 2018 Winter Classic at Citi Field, according to Newsday.
The game, scheduled for New Year’s Day, has never taken place in the New York City area.
The Sabres, of course, hosted the first Winter Classic in 2008 at what is now called New Era Field. The game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, a 2-1 shootout loss, was a rousing success and has become iconic in Buffalo sports.
The NHL might want the Sabres to commemorate the 10th anniversary with another appearance. They also have slick center Jack Eichel, who has morphed into an offensive star this winter. The Buffalo market also delivers huge television ratings.
The Rangers played two Stadium Series outdoor games in 2014 at Yankee Stadium.
New Era Field is hosting an outdoor game between Canada and the United States at the World Junior Championship on Dec. 29.
What a blown opportunity and massive waste of money to have the ice down for the World Junior game, and not let Buffalo host the Winter Classic.
Eichel vs. McDavid, after USA plays Canada?
Bettman is an idiot.