Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: It’s expected that the NHL will announce the site of next year’s Winter Classic during the All-Star weekend. Rumor is they’ll be announcing a Red Wings – Maple Leafs match-up in Detroit. Wings owner Mike Ilitch may want it at the Tigers Stadium. Michigan Stadium holds 110,000 plus. Officially 104,172 attended The Big House (Michigan Stadium) to see the Wolverines and Spartans set the record for most people at a hockey game. Unofficially they figured the number was closer to 113,000. They don’t sell beer at college football games at The Big House.
Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel: Panthers GM Dale Tallon has said they are already working on contract extensions for Kris Versteeg and Jason Garrison. Talks have begun but nothing is imminent. They haven’t talked in weeks, but they have got things rolling.
Dan Arritt of ESPN Los Angeles: Kings center Anze Kopitar left last night’s game with an upper body injury. He was checked head-first into the boards by Stars forward Brenden Morrow in the 3rd period. Coach Sutter said he just had a bloody nose and will be fine.
Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets forward RJ Umberer is out indefinitely with concussion like symptoms.
Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: The Capitals have put Mike Green on the LTIR. February 1st is the earliest he’ll be able to return. The Caps recalled forward Cody Eakin to take Green’s spot on the 23 man roster.
Josh Rimer via twitter: Red Wings GM Ken Holland on Nicklas Lidstrom not being named to the All-Star game: “Lidstrom wanted a few days off during the break & he’s looking forward to a few days off to rest the batteries.”
Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Ducks Teemu Selanne was asked to go to the All-Star game but politely declined.
Sean Fitz-Gerald via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will make his 5th consecutive start for the Maple Leafs tonight in Buffalo. Coach Ron Wilson is not sure if James Reimer will play this weekend.
