Cannon and Octopi: The Hidden Gems of Team Pride

The jerseys, created by Fanatics with input from the NHL and both teams, feature hidden Easter eggs that pay homage to their respective cities. For the Blue Jackets, who are participating in their first outdoor game, the design draws from the uniforms of Union Army soldiers, a nod to Ohio's rich history. Notable features include a new “CBJ” logo that echoes a pin on a soldier's hat and the distinctive chevron stripe on the sleeves.

But perhaps the most exciting addition is the incorporation of a cannon—a symbol of the team's identity—into the primary logo for the first time. "This was the perfect opportunity to highlight the cannon in a bold way," explained Dom Fillion, the creative director at Fanatics.

Meanwhile, the Red Wings honor Detroit’s storied automotive industry with a jersey that features speed stripes and a front crest scripted in a style reminiscent of classic car logos. The jersey's texture mimics vintage auto upholstery, marrying sports with Detroit’s cultural legacy in a unique way.

A Color Debate: Keeping It Blue vs. Red

In the context of the game being hosted at the famed Horseshoe Stadium, discussions swirled about aligning the jerseys with the colors of Ohio State and Michigan. Columbus, sporting Blue as their primary color, was reluctant to change gears, wanting to retain their identity as the home team. The NHL proposed white for the Blue Jackets, but the team firmly stood its ground.

While the Red Wings have participated in outdoor games before, this particular event presented an opportunity to honor both the essence of their team and the rivalry with the Blue Jackets. "It’s about balancing originality with maintainability of our essence," said Brian Jennings, NHL's Senior Executive VP for Marketing.

The Power of Subtle Details

Both teams agreed on another requirement: to subtly incorporate their mascots. The Blue Jackets feature a buckeye leaf pattern inside the collar—a tribute to Ohio's state tree—along with a nod to the school's spirit. The Red Wings included a playful twist, integrating their octopus mascot's eyes on a small tag at the hem of their jersey, creating a fun Easter egg for fans to discover.

Get Your Gear

Fans eager to don these distinctive jerseys will be excited to know that both the Blue Jackets and Red Wings jerseys are available for pre-order at their official team stores, making it a perfect piece for showing team pride during this highly anticipated outdoor matchup.

The Bigger Picture

This Stadium Series is not just about the game; it’s a showcase of tradition, design innovation, and local culture, making March 1 a day to remember in the world of hockey. As fans from Ohio and Michigan gather at Ohio Stadium, these unique jerseys will not only represent their teams but also the spirit of the communities they embody. Will you be ready to cheer on your team in style? Don’t miss out!