Winter Classic 2015
It has been announced that the 2015 Winter Classic will feature the Washington Capitals vs. the Chicago Blackhawks.
This will be the third outdoor game for the Blackhawks, who have lost both of their previous contests. The first loss was in 2009 against the Detroit Red Wings on Wrigley Field in Chicago. The second loss was last season against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Soldier Field in Chicago.
This will be the Capitals second outdoor game. Their first was a victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2011 on Heinz Field in Pittsburgh.
This years Winter Classic will take place in Washington DC.
Oilers Acquire Window Of Negotiation With Nikita Nikitin
The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly received permission from the Columbus Blue Jackets to negotiate with upcoming costless agent defender Nikita Nikitin. Nikitin is a defensive defender who has seen his playing time reduced in past seasons as Columbus has found better options. This past season he averaged 17:07 minutes of ice time per game, and played in 66 games.
| Player | GP | G | A | P | CF% | CF% Rel | ZS% | QoC TOI% |
| Nikita Nikitin | 66 | 2 | 13 | 15 | 49.2% | -1.9% | 49.1% | 27.8% |
Nikitin is a bottom pairing defender and according to Aaron Portzline is seeking a deal of 4 years minimum.
He would be a better option for the Oilers in their bottom pairing than Matt Greene and Mark Fraser, the other two rumored options making the rounds for Edmonton. The problem comes with how much Nikitin expects on a four year deal. With his TOI dwindling, and his effectiveness against poor competition, it is vital Mact doesn't overspend on this contract.
Cam Janssen Resigns with Devils
The New Jersey Devils have reportedly re-signed Cam Janssen to a one year, two-way deal. Details on contract numbers have not been released. Janssen, a fourth line player, played in 24 games for the Devils last season scoring zero goals and three assists.