Sun Jan 25 04:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Admirals Triumph Over Wild in Record-Breaking Cold Outdoor Game

Hastings, Minn. – The Milwaukee Admirals defeated the Iowa Wild 3-2 in overtime on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Hockey Day Minnesota in Hastings. The game set a new record for the coldest professional hockey outdoor game in history.

The Admirals overcame an early 2-0 deficit to secure the victory. Despite a strong start from the Wild, who led after two periods, Milwaukee rallied with goals in the third period and overtime to claim the win. The game was notable not only for the on-ice action but also for the record-breaking frigid temperatures.

Key Points

  • The game-time temperature was -8°F, setting a new record for the coldest professional hockey outdoor game, surpassing the previous record of -5.7°F set at the 2022 NHL Winter Classic.
  • Hunter Haight and Ryan Sandelin scored for the Iowa Wild.
  • Ryder Rolston and Daniel Carr scored for the Milwaukee Admirals, with Zach L’Heureux scoring the overtime winner.
  • The Admirals outshot the Wild 37-27.
  • The Wild went 0-for-1 on the power play, while the Admirals were 1-for-4.

Key Takeaways

  • The Milwaukee Admirals demonstrated resilience in overcoming a two-goal deficit in extremely challenging conditions.
  • The game highlights the growing popularity of outdoor hockey events and the willingness of fans and players to endure harsh weather conditions for the experience.
  • The record-breaking temperature underscores the logistical challenges and potential safety concerns associated with outdoor games.

Impact Analysis

The success of Hockey Day Minnesota 2026, despite the extreme cold, suggests a continued appetite for outdoor hockey events at all levels. This may lead to increased investment in technologies and strategies to mitigate the risks associated with cold weather, such as heated benches, specialized equipment, and enhanced medical support. The game’s high attendance, coupled with the media attention generated by the record-breaking temperature, could also encourage other leagues and organizations to consider hosting similar events, provided that safety remains a top priority. The availability of streaming via AHLTV on FloHockey expands the reach of these events to fans who may not be able to attend in person.

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