Winter Classic 2012: Henrik Lundqvist and Players Who WIll Steal Show

The Winter Classic is the biggest event that the NHL puts on. It’s even overtaken the NHL’s All-Star game, as the “It” event for a player to make himself a household name.

It’s why Henrik Lundqvist and these two players have a chance to go out there on Jan. 2nd, and steal the show. 

New York Rangers: Henrik Lundqvist

Lundqvist has been a rock for the Rangers this year, posting a 1.95 goals-against average, while winning 15 games in 26 appearances. Lundqvist has won his last three starts by giving up only three goals. 

Why Lundqvist will steal the show: Lundqvist has already shutout the Flyers in one game this year, and has shut them down in their second game, allowing two goals. He will see a lot of shots from the Flyers, while making a lot of highlight reel saves.

Chances at being No. 1 Star: 85 percent

If Lundqvist does shut the Flyers out for a second time this year, they will give “King Henrik” the No. 1 star from the game. 

Philadelphia Flyers: Claude Giroux

Giroux is a young Flyers player who has bounced back in a big way since suffering a concussion a couple of weeks ago. He has only one goal in his last five games, but Giroux does have seven assists. 

Why Giroux will steal the show: If he can find space against the Rangers defense at the Winter Classic, he will be able to find his deadly wingers to create scoring opportunities. 

Giroux is the league leader in points and has a chance to pull off a highlight reel play that sets up a teammate for a goal. 

Chances at being No. 1 Star: 70 percent

If Giroux can break free from the Rangers defensemen, he will put on a magnificent show for the hometown crowd and the millions watching at home. He has the ability to go off for a big four-point game, with three assists and a goal. 

New York Rangers: Marian Gaborik

Gaborik has been on a tear over his last five games. He has tortured opposing goalies for seven goals over those five games, while having an impressive plus-eight rating in those five games. 

Why Gaborik will steal the show: Gaborik has been a big reason why the Rangers have dominated the competition in their last five games. With Gaborik’s big production, the Rangers have been able to outscore their opponents 18-7. 

Chances of being No. 1 Star: 60 percent

Against the Flyers this year, Gaborik has only one goal on five shots in two games. He should see a lot of the Flyers' top defensemen during the game, who will be looking to shut down the Rangers sniper. 

This game will be a tight contest with the game being slowed down due to the outdoor elements. With Lundqvist playing at such a high level, the elements favor him the most. He will have a day where he either has a shutout, or allows just one goal. 

That means, he will be the No. 1 star and the person that people are talking about after the game. 

Follow @tjmcaloon