Michigan regents to discuss NHL Winter Classic at special meeting Wednesday

Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon confirmed in January that he was involved in discussions with the NHL regarding the Winter Classic, but said, "there are a lot of complex circumstances that need to be ironed out, before anything moves forward. We will have more to say if/when something materializes."

Though a facility-use lease has apparently materialized, associate athletic director Dave Ablauf said the the athletic department has no official comment at this time. Ablauf said it is department policy not to comment on action items going before the regents prior to approval.

Multiple news outlets have been reporting that the NHL's annual New Year's Day outdoor game would be between the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs for weeks.

NHL vice president of communications John Dellapina previously told AnnArbor.com the NHL doesn't comment on specific Winter Classics "until contracts are signed." That apparently still applies when the contract appears close to being signed.

"There is nothing to report from the NHL," said Jayme Horan, NHL vice president public relations and player development, in an email.

A representative with the Red Wings also declined to comment.

The meeting will be held in the university's Fleming Administration Building.

Contact Pete Cunningham at petercunningham@annarbor.com. Or by phone at 734-623-2561. Follow him on Twitter @petcunningham.