NEW YORK CITY -- The Sabres are ringing in the new year with the NHL Winter Classic against the Rangers in the Big Apple.

When the Sabres came to New York City, they may have accidentally brought Buffalo weather with them. Players are dealing with a ton of obstacles at Citi Field, including howling winds, temperatures that feel like zero degrees, and a glare off the ice.

“That was kinda weird. Couple times there I had the puck and I couldn't see much. Took away your peripherals. Hopefully the sun gets down a bit. Could be difficult for sure,” said Sabres forward Ryan O'Reilly.

“Hopefully the wind'll be at our backs for three periods. I know that's not gonna be the case. We're gonna put a good game plan together. Using other coaches experience here being in this game,” said Sabres Head Coach Phil Housley.

It was so cold at practice; Robin Lehner wore four undershirts beneath his goalie pads. He said the bigger problem was his two pairs of socks underneath his skates. He says they didn't fit right at first, but he got used to it -- like players got used to the cold weather.

“I just wore whatever I wear. Try to enjoy it. Once you're out there in the moment, you don't think about how cold you are,” said Sabres defenseman Nathan Beaulieu.

“I think once you get into practice, once your mojo starts going, you warm up pretty quick,” said Sabres forward Jordan Nolan

“I don't think I'm gonna approach it any differently. I'm gonna try and enjoy this opportunity. I'm gonna try to enjoy the atmosphere out there, and just have fun,” said Sabres goalie Robin Lehner.

The weather is harsh and unforgiving, but it's fair. The Sabres and Rangers will both have to deal with the same elements on New Year's Day.