This Thursday sees the start of the competitive hockey season here in Europe as the Champions Hockey League swings into action on 29 August.
It always gives a first look at the new formations as well as giving the chance to see new teams and the different playing styles of Europe's hockey nations.
It will be on Friday when the current Swedish and CHL champions, Frölunda Indians start their trophy defense at home against Austrian newcomers, Graz 99ers.
And even without the top scoring back in CHL history, Canadian Olympian Chay Genoway, they are still my favourites to win the 2019/20 title. That's because they still have the likes of CHL top scorer Ryan Lasch, former Anaheim Ducks' Max Friberg and former Dallas Stars centre, Joel Lundqvist (above) in the squad.
Here in Sweden, SVT will show the majority of matches involving the Swedish teams. So look out for Luleå HF and Färjestad BK who will play at home on Thursday and my top match of the opening round on Friday as Skellefteå AIK take on Swiss, SC Bern. On the same day Djurgården IF will start their campaign away in Poland.
Saturday and Sunday will also see all the teams play a second round match so the hockey season is truly starting this weekend! Let the games begin!
@ABritOnThinIce1
