I found this link to the top 10 arenas:
In this article, we will rank the top-ten NHL arena exterior designs. Each arena is special, so let's dive into the best of the best.
drive4five.blog
I like Rogers Place and the T Mobile Arenas for their exterior views.
Some really cool designs there. Personally I always loved the American Airlines Centre.
My prediction for Lebreton is that it is heavily inspired and concealed by nature but juxtaposed by some kind of modern iconic feature. It will be an arena disguised as a park. Something that has contours that blend with the natural topography, a low and accessible roof line from certain angles, lots of surrounding green space to help it settle in, green roofs that make it disappear. I wonder if from Albert you'll even be able to see it at all. Parking will be all 'underground.' Not actually underground, but they'll build up hills to cover parking.
The architectural achievement will be how light of a footprint it has, how 'respectful' it is of the land. Instead of glitz and glam it's going to be humble and hidden. It will also be a very efficient use of land. This is where the partnership and handout from the NCC comes in. The NCC will drive most of this design and because it will incorporate so much green space, public space, multi use space (green roofs accessible at grade, usable space over parking, large green promenades that blend with adjoining spaces, public pathways) the NCC will justify kicking in because of how much it benefits their vision along with the carbon offset and contribution to their net zero gaols.
Instead of the 10 acres + being reserved exclusively for the Sens, much of it will become common land that will benefit the NCC and the City. This will align with their values of community and accessibility and couldld satisfy the Algonquin partnership angle. Bluesfest can relocate here, outdoor exhibits and other festivals will be held, public markets etc... The Sens will give up some sovereignty on how it is designed and used in exchange for the NCC financing and benefiting from a portion of it. The optics of a handout are thus managed with minimal public backlash.
So, instead of picturing some modern hyper urban arena that makes some big flashy architectural statement, picture... a park.