One Year Since Stadium Series in Raleigh
By Glenn Brewer
One year ago, Raleigh hosted the Stadium Series outdoor hockey game. Carter-Finley Stadium was rocking with an unbelievable atmosphere and the Carolina Hurricanes responded with a 4-1 victory.
Last evening, the New Jersey Devils and Philadelphia Flyers matched up outside to play on a rink at MetLife Stadium. This afternoon, the New York Islanders and New York Rangers will take the same ice to complete the series this year.
56,961 Caniacs filled Carter-Finley Stadium and created a college football-like atmosphere for the NHL. It is unimaginable to think that the atmosphere created in Raleigh last year could be matched, even in the big city of New York. The mix between college and "normal" hockey fans was beautiful and addicting. Thankfully, the NHL did take notice and plans to return an outdoor game to Carolina soon.
The COVID pandemic delayed the outdoor game in Raleigh, which created even more bent-up energy from Caniacs. It was a special day for all of Carolina and their hockey fans. From the morning until late after the finish of the game, the parking lot was rocking in celebration.
In what feels like the last good game played by Jesperi Kotkaniemi, his goal and assist were a highlight of the game. Martin Necas, Paul Stastny, and Teuvo Teravainen each added to the score sheet while Frederik Andersen had 24 saves to complete the win.
The Washington Capitals never really got going in this game and could only scrounge up a goal in the middle of the third period by Tom Wilson.
I am sure everyone has their special memory from the day and you can relive that watching the game last night and today. Hopefully, these memories can last till the next outdoor game!