Let’s take a look at today’s six games. All times are Eastern (ET).
7:00 pm
Washington @ Carolina
The Hurricanes finally host a team in Carolina after bouncing around Europe and the Pacific Division (among other areas) to start off the season. We’ll have more on the Hurricanes playing their first home game 20 days after the season started a little later today.
Meanwhile, the Capitals hope to regain their scoring touch, as they’re averaging 2.9 goals per game after averaging 3.8 last season.
Atlanta @ NY Rangers
The Rangers go for their fourth consecutive win tonight, which would be their first four game winning streak since December 2009. They’ve been able to do that without Marian Gaborik and Chris Drury, who are on the shelf with injuries. The Thrashers hope to end a losing streak (0-2-1) as Evander Kane establishes himself as legit offensive threat.
7:30 pm
NY Islanders @ Montreal
This begins a home-and-home between the Isles and the Habs. The Islanders are unexpectedly hot so far, winning three of their last four as they sit among the best teams in the East. John Tavares is a big reason why, scoring seven points in the last four games. Montreal’s been even better, though, with a 5-2-1 record. Few would have expected this to be a big game, but so far, it is.
Pittsburgh @ Tampa Bay
There’s just no way to sell this one, right? I mean, gosh, when you have nobodies like Sidney Crosby, Steve Stamkos, Evgeni Malkin and so on, you just hope fans show up for the hot dogs. Crosby and Stamkos once again seem like they’ll go toe-to-toe for the Maurice Trophy after sharing it last season, so this could be an entertaining contest.
8:30 pm
Los Angeles @ Chicago
The Kings (6-2) have been stronger than the defending champion Blackhawks (5-4-1) so far, but it will be a real test for Los Angeles tonight. If they can beat them without stud defenseman Drew Doughty, that would be a real confidence booster for an up-and-coming club.
10:30 pm
New Jersey @ San Jose
This is a contest between two perennial contenders who are struggling mightily so far this season. The Sharks (3-3-1) are looking quite a bit better than the Devils (2-6-1), but both teams could really use this one if they want to make good on their considerable talent.