Well folks, today is your big day. As many of you return to work, the NHL hosts the Winter Classic. Maybe you can watch it on DVR when you get home.

For those who are jealous of us who get to watch, know that this particular author will not be watching. We have gone through the reasons, so we won't do so here again. However, just know that while you long to watch the game, we few, we bitter who choose not to watch it stand at your side through your misery. For those of you who will be watching... enjoy the false rivalry and the ridiculous date and start time. Enjoy the corporate pageantry in all it's glory.

I'll watch reruns of something on the History Channel.

Late news from Russo via Twitter: Clayton Stoner, Casey Wellman, and Devin Setoguchi are all practicing today.

First Things First

Minn. prep hockey player paralyzed during game | kare11.com - Please keep this young man in your thoughts and prayers. Scary stuff.

Wild News

Wild's Latendresse feeling powerless | StarTribune.com - For anyone who may have been about to start chastising Latendresse. You may want to read this first.

'Bring on' 2012 says frustrated Wild contingent Time to get 'er in gear.

Tending the Fields

The Third Intermission: Aeros lose 47-0 to OKC - Ouch.

World Juniors Preliminary Round Recap - Puck Worlds - Wild prospects look to be following (leading?) their teams successes and failures.

King on WJHC: USA not an elite hockey power? - sportsnet.ca - Nope.

Your SBN Home for the Winter Classic

Broad Street Hockey - For Philadelphia Flyers Fans

Blueshirt Banter - For New York Rangers Fans