Hockey fans everywhere fell in love with the first ever Winter Classic last January in Buffalo, where 71,217 people packed into Ralph Wilson Stadium. They loved it so much that they are bringing the event for another go-around next season in Chicago, where the Blackhawks will host the Stanley Cup champion Detriot Red Wings.

Fantastic idea! The game last year between Pittsburgh and Buffalo was sold-out and the ending was superb. I have always been a fan of trying out new things in sports and I feel like this could become an annual staple for the league. They would obviously have to keep the Winter Classic game in the midwest or eastern state, but finding a city within the league shouldn’t be that difficult. I would love to see the Rangers play the Devils at the Meadowlands in Giants Stadium.

Wrigley has never hosted a hockey game before, but the Chicago Bears did play a game at the friendly confines awhile back. Blackhawks officials belive this is a great way to get Chicago hockey fans back in the mood. The Blackhawks have put together a nice group of young players to compete, but they need the help of their fans to get back to their past glory.

Chalk this up as another good improvement for the NHL since coming back from the lockout. The league has to continue to attract fans and this is certainly a great event to put hockey back on the map. The only drawback for the Blackhawks and their fans is that they have to face the reigning Stanley Cup champions.