You will see a lot of articles coming down the pike in the coming days that talk about different players who should be playing in the Winter Classic legends game this coming January. I think Nick Fotiu has to be on that list. The longtime New York Ranger, was a BIG fan favorite as we outlined in my book “100 Ranger Greats” where he is ranked as the 100th greatest.

When asked if he wanted to play he responded, “Yes, I’m the first New Yorker to ever play for the New York Rangers.”

He is still active with the Rangers, many Flyers fans still know him (he played 1 season there) and he’s good for the game. Besides that at age 59, he’s very spry and still has a passion for the game.

“I just actually had my hip done and I’m skating better than ever. I’m in good shape,” he stated. “I’m at the Garden doing Rangers’ stuff all the time. Actually I’m playing on the 30th against the Bruins (Terry O’Reilly, Brad Park, Reggie Lemelin and Rick Middleton to name a few) . I’m playing for the police team along with retired and current day players. Click here for the information:
http://www.bruinsalumni.com/schedule.php

This game in Philadelphia should have a nice mix of players. I can envision Mark Messier, Wayne Gretzky, Mike Richter, Brian Leetch, Adam Graves, Nick Fotiu, Ron Greschner, and Ron Duguay to name a few for the Rangers. As well as Eric Lindros, John LeClair, Mikael Renberg, Bob Clarke, Dave Poulin, Jimmy Watson and maybe somebody like Pete Peters in net, assuming Ron Hextall’s position with the Kings precludes him from playing.

No matter what this game will be a lot of fun to watch. James van Riemsdyk told me he will be watching since he grew up a Ranger fan and now has gotten to know a lot of the Flyers since playing for them. The buzz isn’t quite there yet but once the players are announced look out, this game will take on a life of its own.

photo by del Tufo.