The NHL Winter Classic, hockey’s annual outdoor game, is coming to Wrigley field this season. Unlike last year’s Pittsburgh/Buffalo affair, the 2009 Classic may have implications in the results of the Western Conference Central Division.

The Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings have stepped it up recently. Both teams have fought through tough schedules to put up 7-1-2 records in the past ten, and have largely avoided the injury bug. With a game in hand, Chicago trails Detroit by 7 points - though the teams have had similar seasons so far. Red Wings RW Marian Hossa leads the team with 24 points, while Blackhawks RW Patrick Kane has 25.

NHL Winter Classic Tickets are available now, as are Chicago Blackhawks Tickets and Detroit Red Wings Tickets