Flyers and Penguins to play outdoors

The Flyers and Penguins will play outdoor games against each other in 2017 and 2019, a source close to the situation confirmed.

"It's always fun games against Pittsburgh, and I know for a fact that fans love when we play Pittsburgh, so it's going to make it even more fun," captain Claude Giroux said.

Next season's game will be played on Feb. 18 at Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. It will help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Flyers and Penguins in the NHL.

Penn State was explored as a possible site, but the cost was too high, the source said.

The 2019 game will be in Philadelphia at a date to be determined. It will be played at either Lincoln Financial Field or Citizens Bank Park.

The Flyers played in an outdoor game against Boston in Fenway Park in 2010 and at Citizens Bank Park against the New York Rangers in 2012. Boston scored a 2-1 overtime win, and the Rangers prevailed, 3-2.

Alumni games are expected to be played in conjunction with the matchups.

- Sam Carchidi