Second Winter Classic Planned in Canada for 2011

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- FanHouse asked NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman Wednesday at the Board of Governor's meeting about the possibility of a Canadian team getting into the Winter Classic and he announced that the NHL is planning a second Winter Classic to be held in Canada next season.

Bettman said that there had been talk about a Canadian Winter Classic this year but it didn't come together. Next season's potential event has yet to be nailed down, but if it comes together, it would be on the schedule, which should be released during the NHL draft in June.

Teams and location are to be determined, but all six Canadian teams are interested in both hosting and playing in it if not hosting, according to Bettman. The Maple Leafs made an official request to host, but the best bet is believed to be Calgary for the initial Canadian Winter Classic.

Bettman said that it's unclear if there would be a U.S./Canadian Winter Classic on New Year's or if the Canadian event would be held on Hockey Day, which is generally on a Saturday in February.

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In addition, FanHouse has confirmed that the league is considering San Jose along with five other teams to open the season In Europe next year; the sites are expected to be Prague, Helsinki and Stockholm. Sharks general manager Doug Wilson told FanHouse that the team would welcome the opportunity to play in Europe as long as the schedule provides adequate rest upon the clubs' return.