The NHL doesn't get it right a lot. They are on "second tier" network (see below), they sport doesn't market itself to the masses, it's hard to understand the entire rule book, etc. But on the first of the year, the NHL puts their best effort by having the neatest spectacle of any sport, The Winter Classic.
They make a hockey rink in an outdoor stadium and put 2 rivals against themselves and the elements. This year, the game is in Philadelphia at Citizens Bank Ball Park and it's the Flyers and Rangers for first place in the Atlantic Division.
This past Saturday, the Flyers and Rangers Alumni put on an amazing display. 66 year old Bernie Parent stole the show, looking 20 years younger. And Eric Lindros got an unbelievable ovation from the Philly crowd.
Now onto the main event: look for the Flyers to put lots of pressure on the Rangers forwards. The game will be won by the team with better special teams. Both teams are legit contenders for the eastern conference and Stanley Cup.
All in all, the NHL needs to continue any and all momentum this game brings. The hockey players are likable and a better effort has to be made to show they are not just goons, they ate good kids.
As mentioned above, today the Vs network will become NBC Sports Network and here are a few suggestions. Build the network thru the NHL, college hoops, mls soccer and the Olympics. Also, the only way to compete with ESPN is find your own strength and use that. You don't want to be an ESPN-lite.
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