For those not aware of the NHL’s global plans, it centres predominately around China. This preseason we saw the Vancouver Canucks and Los Angeles Kings face-off in Shanghai and Beijing.
It would appear that the NHL wants to throw an Original Six heavyweight into their marketing campaign. Chris Johnston of Sportsnet reported that talks were ongoing to have the Boston Bruins and Calgary Flames matchup in China this September.
Discussions still ongoing for two pre-season games in China next September. It’s expected that Calgary and Boston will play them.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 27, 2018
My immediate concern is the travelling. The Canucks and Kings had a week to recover from the trip before playing their final preseason matchups. However, both teams still looked a little jaded. I’m all for growing the game abroad, but teams need to be given adequate time to recover and regroup for the season ahead. I’m not going to speak for the Calgary Flames but the Bruins will in all likelihood be attempting another deep playoff run.
With two games in China, it’s an odd one for fans in particular. They wont be able to watch the game live (unless fully caffeinated), and it deprives them of a home preseason game. Regular season NHL games are expensive, especially if you have a family. The preseason is a time where families can afford to bring the entire family to TD Garden.
Bruins fans, what are your immediate thoughts?