Tampa Bay Lightning’s Inaugural Outdoor Game
The Tampa Bay Lightning have made history by organizing their inaugural outdoor game on February 1, where they will face off against the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium.
Owner’s Absence Due to Injury
However, team owner Jeff Vinik, who played a pivotal role in bringing this event to fruition, will not be present due to a serious leg injury he sustained in a snowmobiling accident during a family vacation.
“Jeff suffered a significant leg fracture, and while he is in good hands with his medical team and on track for a full recovery, his condition will prevent him from attending the event on Sunday,”
the Lightning’s official statement revealed.
The organization expressed their gratitude for Vinik’s fortitude and commitment, acknowledging that while it is disappointing he will miss this landmark occasion for the franchise, they know he will watch intently from a distance, filled with pride for the team’s developments.
Game Details and Expectations
The game, which is slated to start at 6:30 p.m. ET, marks the second outdoor matchup of the NHL season in Florida, following the Winter Classic where the New York Rangers triumphed over the Florida Panthers on January 2. Although temperatures in Florida are projected to be in the 40s, the Lightning will aim to improve upon their impressive outdoor record, having previously won against the Predators in Nashville during the 2022 Stadium Series. The Bruins, on the other hand, boast a favorable outdoor game record of 4-1.
This significant but somber news for the Lightning has garnered attention amid the excitement surrounding the upcoming game.
