NHL All-Star Game Preview History

2011 NHL ALL STAR GAME PREVIEW:
A recent study shows that the only major sport in America picking up more fans (well, other than the NFL) is the NHL. We’d like to say because poutine is becoming more popular stateside, but all the evidence is pointing toward the league being so willing to try new things to garner attention that it’s actually working. Whether it’s playing hockey outside on New Year’s Day or changing an unpopular rule in the middle of the season, the league is looking to please its fans. This year’s NHL All-Star game in Raleigh, North Carolina, is no different.

After a year where a new Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Winter Olympics wiped out the 2010 NHL All-Star game, the league came back with a new twist. In an era where fantasy sports are all the rage, the 2011 edition will feature two captains who will choose their teams. Previously, it was broken down by conference or geography. Now, Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings) and Eric Staal (Carolina Hurricanes) will choose between a roster that contains players like Alexander Ovechkin (Washington Capitals), Marc Staal (New York Rangers, and brother of Eric) and the Sedin brothers, Daniel and Henrik (Vancouver Canucks). It promises to be an exciting, interesting and ground-breaking night you won’t want to miss!