Panthers soaking in what they expect to be ‘unbelievable’ Winter Classic
After a year of talking, of hyping up, of anticipation, the moment is finally here.
The Florida Panthers are playing an outdoor hockey game in Miami.
The NHL’s 2026 Winter Classic between the Panthers and New York Rangers at loanDepot park, home of the Miami Marlins, is Friday night (8 p.m., TNT). Temperatures are expected to be in the low 60s or high 50s. The ballpark’s retractable roof will be open to show the Miami skyline in the backdrop.
“For most of the league, it’s not every year you get an opportunity to go through something like this,” said Panthers forward Sam Reinhart, who is playing in his second career outdoor game after going through one with the Buffalo Sabres. “I think you have to take it all in. It’s not the league’s first rodeo. They seem to know what they’re doing and how to put on a good show.”
Before the game, the Panthers had a chance to see the site on Thursday. They held a full team practice for about 45 minutes and then took the ice in a more casual setting for a family skate.
“Unbelievable,” defenseman Gustav Forsling said. “They’ve done a great job.”
Added veteran forward Brad Marchand, set to play in his fourth career outdoor game: “Very, very unique setting here. Really excited about it.”
The roof was closed during practice. What is Forsling expecting on Friday night when it’s opened and hockey is played underneath the Miami sky?
“It’s going to be cool,” Forsling said. “Maybe see some stars and stuff like that.”
Panthers coach Paul Maurice, who has previously coached in two outdoor games, said he has encouraged players to soak in the past few days, enjoy the uniqueness as much as they can.
Yes, ultimately a game will be played, one with actual implications on the standings — both the Panthers and Rangers are jostling for Stanley Cup playoff positioning near the midway point of the season — but these are special moments for the players and their families, Maurice said.
“All of the wives are here, the kids are here, moms and dads are here,” Maurice said Thursday. “That just makes it a really great event. We really want to enjoy that. ... They get serious at 5 o’clock [Friday]. Prior to that, experience it with your teammates. Experience with your family.”
And that’s exactly what they’re doing.
“You’re on vacation, really, is what you’re doing,” Marchand said. “You’ve got family down here in Miami, hanging on the beach and enjoying New Year’s parties. Those are not things that you get to do very often. You’ve got to enjoy more on the other side of the spectrum. This is such a special time, just to be in the moment. Worry about right here and right now. .... The game on the ice itself, you want to make sure you do the right things and play the right way, but this is just an opportunity to enjoy a unique experience.”
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