Winter Classic 2012: Fans Guaranteed a Treat in Classic Battle for 1st Place

Imagine the delight when something already dubbed a classic would get an added level of entertainment by way of the season's standings. 

Fate could bring a fortuitous new year's gift in the form of a Winter Classic with no less than first place on the line. When the New York Rangers travel to Philadelphia to take on the Flyers at Citizens Bank Park, it could be for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. 

Every season seems to pit two teams hell bent on winning the Winter Classic and this year's iteration will be no different. 

If fate deems it worthy, we could see the most important Classic since its inception. The Flyers and Rangers are both sitting in second place with 48 points. If Friday and Saturday are dismal ones for the Rangers and Bruins, we will be looking at a January 2nd that will determine the landscape of the league. 

The Bruins currently sit in first place with 49 points and play the Dallas Stars on Saturday. That will be no cakewalk but the Bruins are on a seven-game tear at the moment. 

The Rangers play a Florida Panthers squad that is as hungry as ever. They could pull within spitting distance of first as they sit at 45 points.

The Classic is always a must-see event for the ambiance, but the NHL has lucked out in past games before. It always seems to pit two teams that need a win, adding a level of excitement that is hardly needed for one already loaded with the stuff. 

We can all cross our fingers that this year's game will mean the ultimate in prizes for the victor. The crowd will be numb from the cold and near-freezing beer, but raucous just the same. 

The hits will be that much harder as nothing short of first place is on the line. Yup, this might just be the best Winter Classic ever. 

Follow @gabezal