WATCH: Sidney Crosby’s shootout win against Sabres in 2008 Winter Classic’s goes viral
Sidney Crosby [Image Credit: NHL.com]
Some moments stay frozen in time, just like Sidney Crosby’s iconic 2008 Winter Classic game. In the wake of the 2023 NHL Winter Classic, fans revisited the memories of that day when the Penguins dusted off the Buffalo Sabres with a 2-1 shootout win at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
Sidney’s goal heated up the arena and its 71k fans, while Sabres tasted chilly defeat. The atmosphere of that day was truly amazing, with the snow piling up, chilly winds, a fabulous shootout, and an arena full of fans. What more could a perfect ice hockey look like?
The snow kept piling on the rink as the players shuffled the puck between them. Crosby with his artistic maneuver passed the puck between the gap of Ryan Miller’s pad, giving the 2-1 victory. While not all, most among the 71,217 arena fans cheered for the young boy and the team.
Sidney Crosby notes his 2008 icy Winter Classic experience
Sidney Crosby noted, “Growing up, I played a lot outside”. “When you see 70,000 people jammed into a stadium to watch hockey, it’s a good sign. The atmosphere and environment, I don’t think you can beat that.”
Even though the Penguins won the match, the heated exchange and energy were shared by all players including the coaches. The dramatic win at the native Buffalo Bills stadium was Crosby’s 2nd outdoor win and 1st in the United States.
Ryan Miller noted, “I like facing Sidney. I really want to stop him, obviously”. “I thought I made a good play to stay with him. I didn’t think he made quite the play he wanted, but it worked out for him.”
Even Sabres coach Lindy Ruff didn’t hesitate to comment, “I’d love to do it again. I thought it was awesome”. “It was good for the game. It may not be the best hockey game because of the situation, because of the weather, because of the snow, but the atmosphere was incredible.” “The hell with the cynics.”
Kris Letang’s multi-move rush on ice pushed his record for a 4-for-4 shootout which ended in a high shot move within the accumulated pile of ice. Temperature drops and winds proved to be enemies for both sides, but who had enough time to care about the outside weather consequences?
The game captured all the spotlight, with players diverting the puck from one end to the other. The match got a high response to which NHL Gary Bettman noted, “Based on the response, on our ability to execute, and the inquiries we’re getting from other clubs for similar activities, this obviously is something we’re going to look at again”.
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Kaushani Chatterjee
(2147 Articles Published)