Following Saturday's 3-1 win for the Los Angeles Kings over the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday evening, it has been announced by the National Hockey League that the Carolina Hurricanes will host the 2021 Stadium Series game.
The matchup will be played at North Carolina State's Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021.
The NHL has yet to select an opponent at this time.
Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon spoke on the Canes' hosting of the 2021 Outdoor Series match up;
“We're proud to be the first NHL market in the Southeast to host an outdoor game. We're going to do everything we can to make as many seats available as possible, because we know how high demand will be for this game, and the epic tailgate that will accompany it.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also commented on the subject in a conference call on Saturday;
“It's a testament to the great fan base that we've always known has been in the Triangle. It's great to see the community reengage in the way they have over the last season. There's no doubt the fan base is passionate, connected, excited. And I think it's a testament to the way the team is playing and the effort Tom Dundon and the organization have put into hockey in the Triangle.”
Following much buzz around the news, Head Coach of the Carolina Hurricanes, Rod Brind'Amour, also touched on the subject;
“I think the environment would be pretty cool. I think it would be great for the area. Especially now, I think we've definitely turned the page here as an organization. I think the town, the city, is really behind us. I think we're due for one.”
While he has never served behind the bench of an outdoor game, he'll definitely enjoy the opportunity to serve as head coach for the upcoming Stadium Series game.
