I’ve been told by visitors and regulars alike that some people like watching hockey even when the Red Wings aren’t playing. I’ll admit I’ve dabbled here and there. I’ll also admit that it’s been a lot more palatable in the last few years.

Detroit’s resting up and getting ready to start their season, but there’s honest-to-goodness real NHL hockey that counts on tonight, so we felt it appropriate to have an open thread to celebrate!

Ottawa Senators at Toronto Maple Leafs – 7:00pm

TV – SN, SN360, TVAS

The nicest thing the NHL will do for Canada all season long is to start the season for them an hour before a game is broadcast in the U.S.  The meanest thing they’ll do is force everybody to watch the Leafs smoke Ottawa.

Washington Capitals at St. Louis Blues – 8:00pm

TV – NBCSN

It still hasn’t fully sunk in yet that the Blues are the defending Cup champs. They’ll get to start their title defense against last year’s cup hangover sweethearts.

Vancouver Canucks at Edmonton Oilers – 10:00pm

TV – SN, SN360

Ken Holland’s new team!

San Jose Sharks at Las Vegas Golden Knights – 10:30pm

TV – NBCSN, TVAS

These two teams finished the preseason at each other’s throats. We’ll see how that carries over to the start of the regular season (and without Evander Kane)