MIAMI (AP) — What a day for Mika Zibanejad! He made Sweden’s Olympic team, pulled off a hat trick, and set a record as the first player to score five points in an outdoor NHL game—all within hours. This helped the New York Rangers defeat the Florida Panthers 5-1 during the Winter Classic, the first outdoor game played in Florida.
Zibanejad wasn’t alone in his success. Artemi Panarin scored twice, and Alexis Lafrenière had three assists. Goalie Igor Shesterkin made a solid 36 saves, ensuring the Rangers remained unbeaten in outdoor games at 6-0.
“It’s hard to grasp the whole day,” Zibanejad shared. “But it’s been a fun ride.”
For Florida, Sam Reinhart managed a goal, but it wasn’t enough. The Panthers started strong but quickly fell behind when they allowed two goals in just over a minute late in the first period. Despite outshooting the Rangers 37-20, they couldn’t overcome the early deficit.
Coach Paul Maurice commended the event, calling it “spectacular.” He said, “The ice was fine, and the overall spectacle was incredible.” Even though it was a loss for his team, he appreciated the experience.
The players had a unique setting, with outdoor ice performing well even in 63°F (17°C) temperatures, the second warmest for an NHL outdoor game. This contrasts with past events where warm weather often caused problems with ice conditions.
Zibanejad’s performance marked the fourth time he has reached five points in a game. “He’s one of our core players,” said Rangers coach Mike Sullivan. “We count on him in all situations.”
The atmosphere was electric. Snowflakes drifted down from the stadium roof, and fire bursts lit up the night as the players took the ice. The Rangers came dressed in all-white outfits, while the Panthers sported a Miami Vice theme with their white suits and pastel shirts.
Among the pre-game festivities, both teams introduced players selected for the upcoming U.S. Olympic hockey team, including Panthers defenseman Seth Jones, who received a loud cheer from the crowd.
This historic event underlines not just the shift in venue but also advances in technology that allow the NHL to host games in warmer climates. As Sullivan noted, “If you would have asked me 25 years ago, I never would have imagined this.”
Fans shared their excitement on social media, noting how the unique atmosphere blended the thrill of hockey with a warm-weather vibe. This event could signal a new era for outdoor NHL games, expanding their appeal beyond traditional colder climates.
The Rangers will next host Utah on Monday, while the Panthers prepare to face Colorado on Sunday.
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Mike Sullivan, Artemi Panarin, Matthew Tkachuk, Igor Shesterkin, Sam Reinhart, Mika Zibanejad, Paul Maurice, Seth Jones, New York Rangers, Florida Panthers, Aaron Ekblad, Alexis Lafrenire, Miami Marlins, Florida, Local News for Apple, New York City, FL State Wire, NHL, AP Top News, New York, Sports, Hockey, NHL hockey, Baseball
