The Boston Bruins and Tampa Bay Lightning are set to square off under the open sky this Sunday as part of the NHL’s Stadium Series, and the stage couldn’t be more unique - Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is transforming from gridiron to ice for a marquee Eastern Conference showdown.
But before the puck drops, both teams made sure to bring some flair to the festivities.
The Bruins arrived in full Revolutionary War regalia - powdered wigs, colonial coats, the whole nine yards - tipping their tricorn hats to Boston’s deep historical roots. It was a bold, theatrical entrance that blended hockey tradition with hometown pride, especially fitting with the Super Bowl around the corner.
Meanwhile, the Lightning embraced their own local flavor, stepping off the bus decked out in classic creamsicle Tampa Bay Buccaneers uniforms. Leading the charge?
None other than quarterback Baker Mayfield and left tackle Tristan Wirfs, adding some NFL star power to the NHL's outdoor spectacle.
These themed arrivals have become part of the fun in recent years. Fans might remember when the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers leaned into a full Miami Vice aesthetic for the Winter Classic in Miami - white suits, pastel vibes, and all. It’s not just about hockey anymore; it’s about creating a moment.
But once the costumes are hung up and the skates are laced, Sunday’s game carries real weight in the standings.
Tampa Bay comes in with the best record in the Eastern Conference, playing the kind of consistent, high-level hockey that’s made them a perennial contender. The Bruins, currently clinging to the final Wild Card spot, have a bit more urgency. They’re six points clear of the Columbus Blue Jackets, but with the playoff race heating up, every point matters - and outdoor games have a way of bringing out the unexpected.
This will mark Boston’s sixth outdoor appearance, and they’re no strangers to the spectacle. From Fenway Park to Gillette Stadium to Lake Tahoe, the Bruins have been part of some of the NHL’s most memorable outdoor moments. Their last outdoor game came at the 2023 Winter Classic, where they hosted at Fenway once again - a nod to their deep connection with the city’s iconic sports venues.
For Tampa, this is outdoor game number two, but it’s their first time hosting. The Lightning’s only other outdoor appearance came in 2022, when they edged the Predators 3-2 in Nashville. Now, they’ll try to defend their home turf - or rather, home ice - in front of their fans in a setting that’s anything but ordinary.
So while the pregame outfits turned heads, Sunday night is all about the hockey. Can the Lightning keep their grip on the East and stay hot on home ice? Or will the Bruins channel their inner Minutemen and march out of Tampa with a statement win?
SOME PATRIOTS HAVE ARRIVED pic.twitter.com/DEG7T2YbHN
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) February 1, 2026
One thing’s for sure: the Stadium Series continues to be one of the NHL’s best showcases - where history, spectacle, and high-stakes hockey collide.