I think all the pomp and circumstance that comes with a normal opening night is exactly what we need in these situations. I love seeing all the player introductions, the new captains if there are any, the new players being introduced in front of the home crowd for the first time. One of the most fun experiences I have had at a hockey game was going to the Red Wings home opener where Mantha scored four against Dallas. So much fun for college student Alaska at the time. But it’s especially fun for an organization that is looking to take a step and compete for the Cup, and for us in St. Louis next season, we are expecting to do exactly that. We made some savvy trades, have some good veterans coming back, and we’re in a good spot to compete this season and I know the home crowd will be rocking for that first game.

WC: 156