Winter Classic Episode 3 Showcases Christmas in Florida

The latest installment of “Road To The Winter Classic” offers an inside look at how the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers are gearing up for the big game in Miami on January 2nd. As the teams prepare for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic at loanDepot park, the holiday spirit is in full swing, with festive decorations and an outdoor ice rink adding to the excitement.

In Episode 3, Panthers forward Anton Lundell captures the unique experience of Christmas in Florida, where palm trees, Christmas trees, and Santa Claus mingle under the bright sun. Catch the episode on Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. ET on TNT, truTV, and HBO Max.

The episode also revisits the 2018 NHL Winter Classic, where the Rangers triumphed over the Buffalo Sabres in an exciting 3-2 overtime win. J.T. Miller, who scored the game-winning goal in that memorable match, reflects on the frigid atmosphere and the electric energy of playing outdoors.

Rangers captain J.T. Miller opens up about taking on a leadership role with the team in his second stint, expressing gratitude for the organization’s confidence in him. Looking ahead to the upcoming game, it’s expected that January’s match will feature a historic showdown between two Russian goalies: Igor Shesterkin for the Rangers and Sergei Bobrovsky for the Panthers.

Shesterkin praises Bobrovsky as a Hall of Famer and recognizes the opportunities Bobrovsky has created for Russian goalies in the league. A behind-the-scenes glimpse of Bobrovsky showcases his unwavering focus and dedication to the game, emphasizing a one-shot-at-a-time mentality.

Lundell also gives viewers a tour of the Panthers’ facilities, juxtaposing the Christmas decorations with the warm Florida weather as they prepare for an outdoor hockey game. Additionally, fans get a peek into Rangers forward Sam Carrick’s family life, where his connection to his family’s maple syrup business sparks fond childhood memories.

Carrick recalls his grandfather’s farm with 200 maple trees and the joy of collecting sap in buckets, providing a glimpse into the personal lives of the players gearing up for the Winter Classic. For Carrick, playing in the Winter Classic has been a dream since childhood, and he’s savoring the surreal experience as it becomes a reality.