Get ready for a potential NHL spectacle in an unexpected location! The Florida Panthers are reportedly in the final stages of planning an outdoor game at LoanDepot Park, the home of MLB's Miami Marlins. This would mark the first time in NHL history that Florida has hosted an outdoor game, a groundbreaking event given the state's climate.
LoanDepot Park, typically the domain of baseball, could soon transform into a hockey arena. While the NHL has ventured into outdoor games in California and Texas, this would be the league's southernmost outdoor venue. However, there's a twist: LoanDepot Park has a retractable roof, leaving open the possibility of an enclosed game.
The NHL has held 41 outdoor games to date, but the Panthers have yet to participate. Following the current season, only the Panthers and the Utah Hockey Club will remain without an outdoor game experience. Teams like the Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, and Philadelphia Flyers lead the pack with six outdoor appearances each.
This potential game in Miami follows a trend of unique venues for the NHL's outdoor series. Previous games have graced iconic locations such as Dodger Stadium, Levi's Stadium, and the Cotton Bowl. This year's Winter Classic is set for Wrigley Field on New Year's Eve, marking the ballpark's second time hosting the event. Ohio Stadium, home of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, will also host a Stadium Series game in March, featuring the Columbus Blue Jackets in their first outdoor game.
For the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Panthers, this potential outdoor game adds another exciting chapter to their story. Their championship victory was hard-fought, overcoming a 3-0 deficit against the Edmonton Oilers in the Finals to ultimately clinch the Cup in Game 7 on home ice.
