As the temperature drops, hockey fans eagerly wait for one thing: the start of the new season. With anticipation building up, we can’t help but wonder how much longer until we see our favorite teams hit the ice.
The countdown has begun, and it won’t be long until we hear the sound of skates cutting through the ice and sticks hitting pucks. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy watching the occasional game with friends, there’s no denying that nothing beats the thrill of live hockey.
“In every winter sport, there is an element of fun that needs to be cherished.” – H.E Davey
Pre-season games have already given us a taste of what’s to come, with players showing off their skills and new additions getting acclimated to their teams. But it’s in the regular season where the real excitement begins.
This upcoming hockey season promises to be one filled with surprises, twists, and turns. From newly formed lineups trying to find chemistry to seasoned veterans determined to lead their teams to victory, anything can happen on any given night. It truly is a sport like no other.
If you’re looking to keep up with all the latest news and updates about the upcoming hockey season, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got everything you need to know to get ready for puck drop, from team previews to player profiles and more. So, grab your favorite jersey and let’s get ready to score big this season!
Discover the Latest Roster Changes and Player Transfers
The anticipation is palpable for hockey fans across the globe, as we eagerly await the start of another season. But before we can get to that point, it’s important to take a look at what has happened during the off-season.
Biggest Roster Shake-Ups of the Off-Season
This off-season saw some major changes in terms of roster shake-ups. One of the biggest moves was made by the Vegas Golden Knights, who acquired star forward Max Pacioretty from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Tomas Tatar, prospect Nick Suzuki, and a 2019 second-round draft pick. Many are excited to see how Pacioretty will integrate with his new team.
Another notable move came from the Ottawa Senators, who dealt their franchise player Erik Karlsson to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a package including Chris Tierney and Dylan DeMelo. This move shocked many Sens fans, but management reassured them that they are committed to rebuilding and acquiring future assets.
Impact of Player Transfers on Team Dynamics
Player transfers can have a significant impact on team dynamics, both positive and negative. The addition of certain players can create chemistry and improve performance, while losing key players can be detrimental.
“It’s never easy moving players out when you know that our fan base respects those players and loves those players. It’s stressful,” said Pierre Dorion, General Manager of the Ottawa Senators. “At the same time… I don’t think anyone in this room thought we’d get five pieces like we did.”
Dorion goes on to explain that part of the reason for the trade was due to contract negotiations falling through with Karlsson, leading management to explore other options. This illustrates how player transfers can be influenced by a multitude of factors outside of just team dynamics.
On the other hand, improving team dynamics was likely one of the goals for the Dallas Stars when they acquired veteran forward Andrew Cogliano from the Anaheim Ducks. Cogliano is known for his leadership qualities and work ethic, which could make him an invaluable asset in helping improve the culture within the Stars dressing room.
“It was tough. He had a big impact on our group,” said Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf about losing Cogliano. “But at the end of the day, these are decisions that our organization makes and we have to move on.”
There are many different ways that off-season roster changes and player transfers can influence a team’s performance, both positively and negatively. As the season approaches, only time will tell how each team will fare with their newly retooled rosters.
Explore the Upcoming Season’s Schedule and Plan Your Game Nights
The countdown to Hockey season is on! It’s time to dust off your jerseys, lace up your skates, and get ready for some hard-hitting action. The anticipation for this season never gets old, and fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the schedule.
Luckily for all you hockey enthusiasts out there, the league has already announced the start date for the upcoming season. On October 12th, we will once again be graced with the sounds of pucks hitting the boards, sticks clashing together, and crowds roaring in excitement. So, mark your calendars!
When it comes to planning game nights, it’s not just about knowing the start date. You need to know who your favorite team will be facing and when, so you don’t miss any important games. Here are some tips to help you organize your ultimate hockey-watching experience.
Key Matchups to Look Forward to This Season
If you’re a true fan, you know that every game counts, but certain matchups always stand out as especially exciting. Whether it’s an intense rivalry between two teams or marquee players going head-to-head, these are the games that everyone circles on their calendar.
This year, there are many highly anticipated matchups worth tuning into. Of course, fans can expect all regular-season games to be filled with energy, passion, and drama, but here are a few key games you won’t want to miss:
- Boston Bruins vs. Montreal Canadiens – This classic rivalry game brings out the best (or worst) in both teams, resulting in some heated moments throughout the years.
- Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Florida Panthers – Two of the strongest contenders in Florida go head-to-head, making for a thrilling matchup that always attracts some of the NHL’s best players.
- New York Rangers vs. New York Islanders – This rivalry has been just as intense during the past decades and still creates excitement among fans today.
Prime Time Games You Don’t Want to Miss
The schedule is jam-packed with games taking place both weekdays and weekends, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch your favorite team in action. Still, there are certain times of day when more viewers tune in than usual, resulting in what’s known as “prime time” games amongst hockey enthusiasts.
These types of games tend to happen later at night or on weekends, allowing fans to watch comfortably while sipping on their favorite beverages at home or surrounded by friends and family at bars. Here are three prime-time matchups worth looking forward to:
- Vancouver Canucks vs Toronto Maple Leafs – On October 16th, Canada will get together to witness two of its teams getting ready for face-off against each other, attracting top-tier talent from all corners of North America (and likely bringing down Wi-Fi in many Canadian homes, too).
- Dallas Stars vs St. Louis Blues – Come February, these two old rivals meet again in Texas’ biggest city
- Calgary Flames vs Edmonton Oilers – The Battle of Alberta goes down five times this season!
Tips for Planning Your Ultimate Game Night Experience
If you’re planning to host a hockey game night party, then it’s essential to create an immersive experience for your guests. Here are some tips to help make this occasion unforgettable:
“Enjoying hockey means immersing yourself fully into the atmosphere and the game so that it’s more than just something happening on a television screen.” – Stephen Harris, The Boston Herald.
- Decorate your space: Start by decorating with your team’s colors or hanging up jerseys around your living room.
- Offer some snacks: Finger foods like buffalo wings, nachos, pizza, popcorn will never fail. Also arrange beverages both alcoholic and non-alcoholic as per taste of guests.
- Organize casual bets: Make a bit interesting event among friends by allowing them to bet for their favorite clubs/players, making the night inevitably even better.
- Sit in front of the TV: Don’t forget about arranging comfortable seating where everyone can enjoy the best visuals..
- Create some atmosphere!: Amp up the energy by playing music during commercial breaks; this is one easy way to keep things fun throughout the game.
With the season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning your game nights. Whether you’re watching from home or hosting family and friends, make sure to mark your calendar for key matchup games that you won’t want to miss (or unknowingly scheduling any meetings, anniversary parties etc)!
Learn About the New Rules and Regulations for the 2021-2022 Season
How the NHL is Addressing Player Safety with Rule Changes
The National Hockey League (NHL) has implemented several new rules aimed at reducing player injuries this season. One of the key changes is increased enforcement of cross-checking penalties, specifically calling out players who use their sticks to hit opposing players in the back area away from the puck. This rule change could potentially reduce injuries by preventing dangerous hits from behind.
Another rule change that aims to improve player safety concerns high-sticking penalties. Referees now have the option to issue a double minor penalty if a player’s stick accidentally contacts an opponent near his face. By strictly enforcing these penalties, players will be forced to take extra precautions or adopt alternative tactics when going after the puck.
“The new rules give more accountability to players and should help make the game safer,” said Mike Emrick, Hall of Fame broadcaster and former NHL commentator.
Changes to Penalty Calls and Their Impact on the Game
A significant change in how NHL referees call penalties this season is allowing them to rely more accurately on video review to assess infractions. Specifically, referees can gather information using slow-motion replay technology before making a final ruling on questionable calls.
This updated procedure will likely impact the flow of the game as reviews may cause individual plays to last longer than usual. However, precision in calling penalties will also reduce missed calls and provide for efforts to ensure the fairness of play among all teams involved in a match.
“This approach acknowledges that refereeing is subjective but helps strike a balance between accuracy and proper speed of play,” said Kevin Weekes, former NHL goalie and current hockey analyst.
How Officiating Will Be Different This Season
In addition to rule changes, NHL officials have received instructions to improve the quality of officiating. According to an internal memo released by the league office, referees will receive clearer guidelines and greater support when interpreting rules during games. They should be more vigilant in detecting fouls that have gone unnoticed previously.
Furthermore, referees are expected to conduct themselves more professionally as they interact with players. Officials may issue penalties not only for physical infractions but also verbal abuse or misconduct between players or towards an official.
“I think everyone believes it’s essential for officials to be at their best behavior and on top of things,” said Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner.
Updates to Overtime Rules and Shootout Procedures
The NHL has made slight changes in overtime rules, similar to last season’s policy. Overtime now consists of a five-minute period played three versus three instead of the traditional five versus five. Afterwards, if still tied, teams proceed to a shootout consisting of up to three rounds, followed by additional rounds if necessary.
To make these proceedings more efficient, the NHL brought about a change allowing one defender and two forwards to line up behind each team’s blue line instead of all players having full ice. The objective is to unleash fewer shots that miss, ease fatigue among uninvolved players, and encourage team strategy development without extra delay.
“The new format generates excitement and enhances skill and speed, which ultimately benefits the sport,” former NHL player Martin St. Louis commented on his Twitter account.
No matter how much fans anticipate next year’s NHL season, it always feels like opening night comes way too late after a long hiatus. However, there is good stuff from this year’s updates that may spark conversations and present worthwhile matches worth sticking around for. Get your seat ready and be informed of all the changes beforehand–there’s not a lot of time with only a few weeks until it begins.
Get Your Gear Ready with the Best Hockey Equipment Deals and Discounts
Hello hockey enthusiasts! The winter season is fast approaching, and this only means that it’s almost time to get back on the ice where you belong. As a true hockey player, you need top-notch gear to help you perform at your best and stay protected while on the rink.
But let’s face it – buying all the necessary hockey equipment can be expensive. Luckily, we’ve found some of the best deals and discounts available so you can get fully equipped for the upcoming season without breaking the bank.
Top Picks for Skates, Sticks, and Protective Gear
If you’re just starting out in the sport or perhaps looking for an upgrade, one of the most crucial pieces of equipment you should invest in are quality skates. Bauer Vapor X800 Junior Ice Hockey Skates are a great option for beginner-level players who want to improve their performance without sacrificing comfort. These skates boast cutting-edge features like anatomical thermoformable construction, hydrophobic microfiber liner, and integrated injected facing stiffener panels for enhanced support. Sizing charts and detailed user reviews make finding the perfect fit easy.
Another essential piece of equipment every player needs is a reliable stick. CCM Ribcor Trigger 4 Pro Senior Composite Hockey Stick is recommended for those seeking superior control, accuracy, and durability. Its optimized Ribcor low kick-point technology allows for maximum speed and power when shooting, making it an excellent choice for forwards. Additionally, its reinforced slash zone makes it highly resistant to impact damage.
Last but certainly not least, protecting yourself from potential injuries is critical, especially since you’ll likely encounter many aggressive collisions on the rink. For supreme safety and mobility, the Bauer Supreme S27 Youth Shoulder Pads feature thermal-molded foam panels, adjustable straps for a customized fit, and an anatomical design that supports natural movement while on the ice.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Hockey Equipment
If you want to get your hands on some new hockey gear without overspending, we recommend checking out these online retailers:
- HockeyMonkey.com – They offer comprehensive selections of skates, sticks, pads, helmets, and various accessories at discounted prices. You can find clearance sales up to 75% off as well as free shipping deals above $49 purchase.
- ProHockeyLife.com – As Canada’s Largest independent Sporting goods retailer, this store continuously provides their novelties products with optimal quality in-stock available all year round and brings incredible buys like offers such as “Gear Up To Grind Out: Bogo 50% Off Sale” which also includes its prompt delivery system in Hockey equipment market.
- Sportsdirect.com – Finds the lowest price, high-end quality brands that always remains updated with seasonal deals and highlights discounts regularly being offered their services ranges around the UK All sports markets contactless delivery made easy and affordable experience to cherish.
“The biggest thing about falling is getting back up and not letting it consume you,” says NHL Hall of Famer Kendal Coyne Schofield.
Your love for hockey should be reflected in the quality of the equipment you use. With the right pieces, you’ll feel more comfortable and confident on the rink, increasing your chances of scoring and winning games. And now that you know where to look, there are no more excuses for not having excellent gear come game time!
Find Out Which Teams Are Favourites and Predictions for the Season
Hello hockey fans! The countdown to the start of the NHL season is on. With each passing day, we get closer to seeing some of the greatest teams in action again.
The excitement is palpable as fans all over eagerly wait for their favourite teams to dominate the ice once more. This year promises to be even more thrilling than ever before, with a number of top contenders vying for the Stanley Cup.
Top Contenders for the Stanley Cup This Year
The competition for this year’s Stanley Cup looks tougher than ever. Several teams have been tipped as favourites, and it’s not hard to see why. For starters, the Tampa Bay Lightning are considered one of the most formidable teams out there.
Last year’s champions, the Lightning, made history by becoming only the third team in NHL history to win back-to-back Presidents’ Trophies. They boast an impressive lineup comprising of stars like Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos.
Other strong contenders include the Colorado Avalanche, who finished last season with the second-best record in the league; the Vegas Golden Knights, who have consistently proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with since 2017; and the Boston Bruins, another perennial contender.
Expert Predictions for Which Teams Will Rise to the Top
To further add to your anticipation, let’s take a look at what the experts predict for the upcoming season. One key factor that sets this season apart from others is the possibility of surprises due to uncertainties caused by the Pandemic-related shutdowns and short off-season.
The Athletic recently surveyed dozens of hockey writers and analysts about which teams they believe will make it into the playoffs this year. From their predictions, the Avalanche came out on top as the team most likely to hoist the Cup in 2022. The Lightning and Golden Knights followed closely behind.
According to NHL Network analyst Kevin Weekes, other teams that could make a strong push for the Stanley Cup this season include the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Carolina Hurricanes, and the New York Islanders.
“They are all deep teams with great goaltending, so it should be interesting,” he said.
Each year, there’s at least one surprise team that goes further than expected. So keep an eye out for some of the underdogs like the Minnesota Wild or the Seattle Kraken to defy expectations.
How many days until hockey season? With just weeks to go, let’s get ourselves ready for what promises to be an epic journey! Buckle up, folks; it’s going to be a wild ride!
Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Scores, Highlights, and News with Our Hockey Season Tracker
The anticipation for the start of hockey season has been building since the last buzzer sounded in the playoffs. As fans anxiously await the beginning of another exciting season, they may be wondering just how many days until the puck drops. Fortunately, there are ways to stay connected to all the latest updates and news as we count down towards the start of the 2021-22 NHL season.
Real-Time Score Updates and Standings
One of the best ways to keep track of scores, highlights, and standings is by using an app built specifically for hockey fans. In recent years, apps like the official NHL app or ESPN’s NHL app make it easy to follow your favorite teams and players. Fans can customize their experience to receive alerts when games begin, when a goal is scored, and when important league-wide events occur, such as trade deadlines, injury reports, and playoff updates. With real-time score updates, you will never miss the action and always know exactly where your team stands in the standings.
Highlights from the Biggest Games of the Week
If you don’t have time to sit through a full game, which admittedly can take up a lot of free time on any given day, highlight reels are widely available for all games, even ones that were played late into the night. Websites such as Sportsnet, TSN, or ESPN provide daily recaps of the biggest games, showing key goals, hits, saves, and player performances. These videos offer a quick yet thorough way to stay up-to-date with everything happening around the league.
In-Depth Analysis of Key Matchups and Player Performances
As dedicated fans already know, those highlight reels only show part of the story. To get a comprehensive look at how your team is performing, websites like The Athletic or Sports Illustrated provide in-depth coverage and analysis of key matchups and player performances. These publications include feature stories on top players around the league, insider info from those behind-the-scenes, and metrics-based breakdowns that give insights into performance trends. With this information at their fingertips, ardent fans can make educated opinions about all aspects of hockey during the season.
Breaking News and Trade Rumours from Around the League
Hockey seasons are often accompanied by breaking news and trade rumors swirling around teams and players. While staying up to date with these announcements has never been easier due to social media, going to trusted sources for this information remains important. Websites such as NHL.com, Hockey Insider, or TSN offer instant updates on trades, injuries, waiver claims, retirements, contract signings, and so much more. Fans can rest assured they’re getting accurate and reliable information rather than just basing insights on hearsay or Twitter traffic.
“The most dangerous game in hockey is overconfidence.” – Bobby Orr
Closely following the various international tournaments that take place before the start of every season provides a good opportunity to acquaint yourself with exciting young talent that might be joining the league for the first time. This includes prospects who have yet to debut in the big leagues, junior stars looking to crack an NHL lineup, European free agents freshly signed by NHL clubs, and several other rookies. Knowing names helps prepared fans to pay closer attention to games involving these newcomers – whether they are lauded prospects or under-the-radar dark horses.
It’s easy to keep track of scores, highlights, and news with our hockey season trackers. Whether you use apps, videos, articles, or social media for real-time updates, stay informed with our guide. As Bobby Orr said, “The most dangerous game in hockey is overconfidence.” Make sure to prepare yourself and follow your favorite teams throughout the season!
Frequently Asked Questions
When does hockey season start?
Hockey season typically starts in early October. The exact date varies each year and is determined by the NHL schedule. The season usually lasts until April, with playoffs following shortly after. Teams play 82 games in the regular season, with each team playing against every other team in the league at least twice. The season is broken up into three parts: pre-season, regular season, and playoffs. The pre-season is a series of exhibition games that take place before the regular season begins and is used to help teams prepare for the upcoming season.
How many games are in a typical hockey season?
A typical hockey season consists of 82 games per team in the NHL. Each team plays against every other team in the league at least twice, with some teams playing against each other three or four times. The season is broken up into two parts: the regular season and the playoffs. The regular season lasts from October to April, while the playoffs typically start in April and end in June. The team with the most points at the end of the regular season is awarded the President’s Trophy, while the team that wins the Stanley Cup is crowned the NHL champion.
How many days until the first pre-season game?
The exact number of days until the first pre-season game varies each year and is determined by the NHL schedule. However, pre-season games typically begin in mid-September, which means there are usually around 30-40 days until the first pre-season game. Pre-season games are exhibition games that do not count towards a team’s regular season record. They are used to help teams prepare for the upcoming season and give players a chance to earn a spot on the roster.
How many days until the first regular season game?
The exact number of days until the first regular season game varies each year and is determined by the NHL schedule. However, the regular season typically begins in early October, which means there are usually around 60-70 days until the first regular season game. The regular season consists of 82 games per team, with each team playing against every other team in the league at least twice. The team with the most points at the end of the regular season is awarded the President’s Trophy, while the team that wins the Stanley Cup is crowned the NHL champion.
How many days until the Stanley Cup playoffs?
The exact number of days until the Stanley Cup playoffs varies each year and is determined by the NHL schedule. However, the playoffs typically start in mid-April, which means there are usually around 200-210 days until the playoffs begin. The playoffs consist of four rounds of best-of-seven series, with the winner of each series advancing to the next round. The team that wins the Stanley Cup is crowned the NHL champion. The playoffs are a grueling test of skill, endurance, and mental toughness, with each team fighting tooth and nail for the chance to lift the most coveted trophy in all of sports.
How many days until the NHL All-Star Game?
The exact number of days until the NHL All-Star Game varies each year and is determined by the NHL schedule. However, the All-Star Game typically takes place in late January or early February, which means there are usually around 150-160 days until the game. The All-Star Game is an annual exhibition game that features the league’s top players competing against each other in a series of skill competitions and a 3-on-3 tournament. The game is a celebration of the best players in the NHL and is always a highlight of the hockey season.