Pittsburgh is warming up to the Winter Classic, and that could be a problem for the NHL.
Forecasters are predicting moderate temperatures and rain showers for the Capitals-Penguins outdoor game Saturday, conditions that possibly could result in the game not starting as scheduled at 1 p.m. EST. The NHL is prepared to play the game as late as 8 p.m. if the weather improves.
The NHL could delay the game to Sunday but prefers not to because the NBC's telecast would oppose NFL games on CBS and Fox.
The forecast for Friday's team practices and the Capitals-Penguins alumni game featuring Mario Lemieux is cloudy with temperatures in the 50s.
Temperatures well above freezing should not affect the ice, but rain poses a risk to players.
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