Too early to be classic

2016 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic - Edmonton Oilers v Winnipeg Jets

The Heritage Classic, the Canadian outdoor game, was held over the weekend in Winnipeg, between Canada’s two greatest afterthoughts. The Jets hosted the Edmonton Oilers, and were courteous enough to allow the Oilers to manhandle them, by a score of 3-0. Such a Canadian thing to do.

The game was plagued by some very unhockeylike problems. There was a lengthy delay from the outset, one of nearly two hours, because the sun was shining too brightly. Of course, this is an issue that could only afflict a place like Winnipeg if you decide to play an outdoor game in October. Compounding the issue was the fact that the sun shone brightly in the eyes of many fans in attendance. Who wants to go to a hockey game with a glare? Ultimately, it was just a little bit too early in the year for outdoor hockey, even as far north as Winnipeg.

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