More Winter Classic Cards "Absolutely" Coming From Upper Deck

Anyone who watched the NHL Winter Classic on New Year's Day can understand why there is so much buzz about the outdoor game becoming an annual event. Between the picturesque setting at Wrigley Field, the sweet retro uniforms and a spirited game between the powerhouse Detroit Red Wings and the up-and-coming Chicago Blackhawks, it was a smashing success for the league for the second straight year.

Hockey collectors can find cards depicting the 2008 Winter Classic between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Buffalo Sabres in several 2008-09 products, including Upper Deck Hockey and O-Pee-Chee Hockey. That raises an obvious question: will we be seeing more cards themed around the Classic in next year's hockey sets?

"Absolutely," Upper Deck spokesperson Chris Carlin said. "The Winter Classic has become a huge event on a day that was traditionally always known for college football. We created special cards commemorating last year's match up in this year's sets and we will have cards of the game this year coming out in future Upper Deck Hockey products."

Keep your eyes peeled later this year when 2009-10 cards start going live. Until then, you can contact the NHL and let them know that you'd like to see the Winter Classic become a yearly tradition.