Hockey was a game meant to be played outside in the cold weather, which is what makes the NHL
Winter Classic so special. Every player gets to recreate their childhood games at the local frozen
pond. These are the top 10 NHL Winter Classics.

10. Canadiens vs Bruins, 2016
The 2016 Winter Classic felt a little stale as the Bruins became the first team to host two different
games. A 5-1 blowout victory for Montreal did not help improve the lackluster feeling from the
game.

9. Blues vs Blackhawks, 2017
This had all of the makings to be a great Winter Classic with St. Louis hosting for the first time in
Busch Stadium, but the action on the ice was disappointing. The Blues cruised to an easy 4-1 over
their heated rivals.

8. Capitals vs Blackhawks, 2015
The lack of a rivalry made it hard to get excited about seeing Chicago and Washington play in
another outdoor game. The Capitals won after scoring with only 12 seconds remaining in the third
period, but the exciting finish did not keep the game from feeling stale.

7. Capitals vs Penguins, 2011
This was supposed to be the battle of Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, but they got very little ice
time together after Crosby left early with a concussion. The injury instantly deflated all of the
game's excitement.

6. Rangers vs Sabres, 2018
The most recent Winter Classic delivered one of the most exciting games in the event's history.
New York got the 3-2 win after quickly scoring in the overtime period.

5. Rangers vs Flyers, 2012
Philadelphia helped create a great atmosphere for this game despite warm temperatures and rain
delaying the game. The Rangers sealed a victory in the exciting game with a penalty shot save less
than 20 seconds remaining.

4. Red Wings vs Blackhawks, 2009
The top two teams in the Western Conference renewed their rivalry in one of the most iconic
stadiums in the world when Wrigley Field hosted the 2009 Winter Classic. The game did not
disappoint with an exciting 6-4 win by Detroit.

3. Bruins vs Flyers, 2010
The Winter Classic was played in an iconic stadium for the second straight year when Fenway Park
hosted. The action on the ice once again delivered with Boston getting an overtime win in front of
their home fans.

2. Penguins vs Sabres, 2008
The excitement was palpable when Buffalo hosted the first ever Winter Classic in 2008. The historic
game featured snowy weather and a thrilling shootout victory by the Penguins.

1. Maple Leafs vs Red Wings, 2014

With well over 100,000 people in attendance, the atmosphere in Ann Arbor will be nearly
impossible to beat in the future. A close game played in the snow made it even more special.
Toronto ultimately pulled off the victory in a thrilling shootout.