MIAMI – On Tuesday night, NHL officials gathered at loanDepot park, preparing for a big event with the Florida Panthers hosting the New York Rangers for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic on Friday.
They conducted a test, opening the sliding glass panels and retractable roof. NHL executive vice president Dean Matsuzaki recounted the moment: “We were counting down – ten, nine, eight…” And when they hit “open,” the results were… anticlimactic. A palm tree and a few flamingos fell over, but nothing major happened.
“That was exactly what we wanted,” Matsuzaki said. “A smooth opening.” The temperature at ice level was a cool 58 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to a regular indoor NHL game.
Looking ahead, the forecast indicates similar conditions for Friday night, which means it might not break the record for the warmest outdoor game. That record was set at 65 degrees at Coors Field in Denver back in 2016. For comparison, it was 62 degrees at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles during a previous Stadium Series game.
“The nights are cooling down,” said Derek King, NHL’s vice president of hockey operations. “By puck drop, things could be perfect. It’s really exciting.” Despite any challenges, the NHL feels confident about this outdoor event, having learned from 43 previous games in various weather conditions.
They’ve even kept the roof closed during the day and set the air conditioning between 60 and 64 degrees while constructing the ice. This careful planning aims to ensure everything goes smoothly for fans and players alike.
Outdoor hockey events have grown in popularity. According to a recent survey, nearly 75% of hockey fans say they enjoy outdoor games more than traditional indoor games. Many fans share their excitement on social media, showing pictures and videos of past outdoor matches.
As the NHL prepares, it’s clear that they’re not just putting on a game; they’re creating a memorable experience, blending the thrill of hockey with the unique charm of Miami.
