The Boston Bruins head coach has been part of two outdoor games in his coaching career, including the NHL’s inaugural foray into the elements in 2003. But the league’s greatest spectacle, Julien said Tuesday, carries with it a whole lot of extra preparation.
“It was exciting. I did the first one with Montreal in Edmonton, and this one here [in Boston] at Fenway,” he said, according to CSNNE.com. “I’m willing to share with others and let others have the opportunity to do it if that answers your question.
“I can say it definitely wasn’t a bad experience, and, win or lose, it’s something pretty special. But it is time-consuming with the trainers for different gear, and all of the adjustments that need to be taken. It’s a lot of work when it’s all said and done. When it’s all done, there is a breath of relief, and then it’s about getting back to normal.”
The Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Detroit Red Wings in a shootout Wednesday in the sixth edition of the Winter Classic. The estimated attendance of 105,491 was by far the most in league history, surpassing the previous record — set in the inaugural Classic in Buffalo — by more than 30,000.
The Washington Capitals will host the New Year’s Day showcase next in 2015, with the game reportedly being held at Nationals Park. The visiting team for that game has not been announced, though the Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers have been rumored as potential candidates.
