As the NHL moves into its second year of “Road to the Winter Classic” with Epix, not a lot has changed from the first year. The NHL used to have a 24/7 series on HBO that was loved by fans and writers alike. Many last year turned their nose to this product but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have its merits.
The first objection of many is the lack of Liev Schreiber, who narrated the 24/7 series. In this iteration, Bill Camp narrates and does a fantastic job setting the mood for the mini series.
The main attraction for this series is the the off the ice personas getting a chance to shine in ways that had never been seen before. Some love it, some shrivel up when the spotlight is thrown on them. Unequivocally, PK Subban is the star of the first episode of this season. He is a ready made star on and off the ice and is always ready to handle anything what is thrown his way.
The quick highlights for him in the firstepisode include his entrance into the locker room while wearing a purple-ish fur coat and carrying a tote that has his suit in it. The reactions of his teammates say it all. “You carrying around a f—ing yoga mat?”
After losing his edge a few times on the ice, Subban comments “I had a couple glasses of wine last night.” Outstanding.
Another highlight includes PK drawing out what kind of suit he wants at the tailor. Wouldn’t it be nice to just go in and select any material you want and have a suit made from scratch? I may never experience that luxury, but PK does and he does it with gusto. He is the star that the NHL needs.
Don’t worry fans of the show – Subban isn’t the lone highlight. We also get a glimpse into Brendan Gallagher’s nasty injury and how grumpy Max Pacioretty turns into a big softy when he sees his son.
The only real shining light on the Bruins is Zdeno Chara, who apparently walks around Boston sticking out like a sore thumb. While large in stature, it is nice to see the Slovokian assimilating quite well with the Boston culture, stopping in at neighborhood food places and barber shops.
The episode is devoid of any drama as both teams are doing pretty well this season. Other than a couple of Subban moments, nothing is truly memorable and it seems like a lot of moments are censored. The 24/7 seasons were very enlightening for their access, but this series seems less and less like a day in the life and more interview based.
Don’t get me wrong – the episode is good. But it makes me yearn for a time when it seemed like unfettered access was the norm. You won’t be able to please everyone, but this episode is still is a must watch for fans of the NHL despite its minor faults.
