OPENING DAY

By Brandon Gwidt

                The National Hockey League finally got back into action on Saturday, January 19, 2013 after its 113-day lockout. Opening day was much delayed due to the lockout, but for hockey fans across North America, the wait seemed well worth it after just one day of action.

                Instead of focusing on the large amount of hockey we have missed out on and whether we are putting the blame on Commissioner Gary Bettman and the owners or the National Hockey League Players Association, fans can now look forward to an exciting and intense season of hockey.  

                With NHL Center Ice offering a free preview throughout the month of January, there was no better time than opening day to tune in and watch 26 of the 30 NHL teams play in 13 thrilling games.

                At times it may have been difficult to decide which game to watch because there were so many great storylines heading into this lockout-shortened season.  Whether you were watching players like Rick Nash, Zach Parise or Ryan Suter suit up for their new teams or catching the end of a thrilling finish between conference rivals Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, there was not a dull moment on opening day.

                The opening day of the NHL season after a long lockout made me appreciate the great game that the NHL brings to the fans. Fans packed arenas and social media was buzzing as NHL teams embarked on their 48-game schedules, which shows how loyal hockey fans are. Despite their frustration with the missed hockey due to the lockout, fans came out in full force and supported the game they love.

                If opening day is any indication of the way this season is going to go for the NHL, I think the lockout will not cause any long-term negative effects due to the great fans that support the game of hockey.