Winter Classic 2012: Why Sports Fans Should Believe the Hype

The Flyers and Rangers are meeting in an open-air battle that will live up to every ounce of hype that preceded it. 

It's understandable to be a little weary when it comes to HBO's 24/7. The series that continues to build up boxing matches doesn't have a great record when it comes to making good on pugilistic promises. 

The NHL is not boxing though. This world can take a good game and back it up, and that is something that falls short so often in 24/7's past boxing iterations. 

So often we get wrapped up in two boxers coming together for what is deemed a near fight of the century only to see a controversial ending or bore that induces nap time. 

Not this time. Every Winter Classic has been special in their own way. With both the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers separated by only two points, this game has an added level of importance. 

To that point, a player that is the perfect personality for a show like 24/7 will be riding pine for the exact reason that this game is so important to both sides. 

Ilya Bryzgalov is a fan-favorite that made a name for himself in his straight-shooting and off the wall comments on the buildup to the Winter Classic.

However, this isn't a popularity contest, and shoddy play means the million-dollar man will be taking a seat when both teams square off Monday afternoon. Instead of the popular personality, Sergei Bobrovsky takes his place. 

This game is far more than the hype that precedes it. These equally matched teams aren't out to give a show or to pander to the crowd. They are primed for a showdown of unrelenting fervor. The winners will of course be the fans who are about to see one hell of a clash. 

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