Once again, it’s time to don your team’s colors and cheer them on as the next chapter in the National Hockey League’s history starts tonight. After much anticipation, young players will make their debuts, teams will take the ice, and all sights will be set on winning the Stanley Cup. Hockey season is here.
Are you ready? https://t.co/a68bOwqDSB
— NHL (@NHL) October 11, 2016
One of the most awaited aspects of this season is the debut of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ No. 1 overall pick, Auston Matthews. Tonight will be Matthews’ first regular season game. Fans were given previews of Matthews’ play throughout the World Cup of Hockey (WCH) as well as the Leafs’ preseason games. His play in both settings made many fans truly realize how good he can be.
Photo courtesy of DobberProspects.com
Another one of the young guns to look out for this season is Connor McDavid. Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in last year’s entry draft, McDavid went into his rookie season being compared to the likes of Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby. He dazzled fans and was having a pretty solid season until an unfortunate injury sidelined him for some time. Despite his injury, McDavid finished the year with 48 points in 45 games. Back for his sophomore season, McDavid will wear the “C” as captain of the Oilers and he’s poised for a stellar breakout year. Opposition beware.
Aside from young players, a few vets were on the move this past summer. One of the most notable trades during the offseason involved the Canadiens (MTL) and Predators (NSH). MTL defenseman P.K. Subban was sent to NSH in exchange for defenseman Shea Weber. The trade was a pure blockbuster. Subban recorded 51 points in 68 games last year, while Weber recorded the same number of points in 78 games. Each player will play a crucial defensive role on their new team and they seem to be well adjusted to their new homes. However, only time will tell how the trade pays off.
Photo courtesy of NHL.com
An active offseason has built up lots of excitement for the puck drop on tonight’s games. Each team will once again battle through a grueling schedule to make their way into the postseason and eventually vie for the Stanley Cup: hockey’s ultimate prize. The puck drops soon.
Are you ready?
