The NHL is reportedly in discussions to hold four outdoor games next season, and Vancouver’s name is being tossed around as a top choice for the Heritage Classic.
David Pagnotta, editor-in-chief of hockey magazine The Fourth Period, told CTV News he’s heard multiple sources suggest the league has its eye on BC Place.
“That’s the venue they want to explore,” Pagnotta said. “They want to spread things out a little bit, you don’t want to necessarily be in your most traditional markets or most traditional environments in terms of bringing a Heritage Classic or a Winter Classic or just an outdoor game.”
Officials from BC Place and the NHL would not confirm the rumours Tuesday, but neither has denied they’re in talks either.
The possibility alone has some players excited. Canucks forward Jordan Schroeder said the stadium could be the perfect venue given the city’s infamously wet weather.
“I’m glad they can close the roof,” Schroeder said. “But I think it would be special, and something you’d never forget.”
Outdoor games are huge moneymakers, Pagnotta said, and could help the league recoup some of the hundreds of millions of dollars lost during the lockout.
“It’s a gold mine for them in terms of ticket sales and merchandise sales, and it’s something they want to pursue on a more regular basis,” he said.
The last Heritage Classic in Calgary easily managed to sell out some 41,000 tickets. BC Place Stadium holds 54,500.
Pagnotta’s sources suggested there could also be outdoor games at Yankee Stadium and Dodger Stadium, as well as a Winter Classic at Michigan Stadium.
Have your say: Would BC Place Stadium make a good host for the 2013-14 Heritage Classic?
With a report from CTV British Columbia’s Scott Roberts
