Nick returns as we are mere days away from the start of the NHL regular season! But first, the news of the week.

The Colorado Avalanche are excited for the start of the regular season, and so are their fans. Unless they're trying to watch on their local cable, as Altitude Sports will not be distributed on the major carriers. Is this a sign of things to come for local sports?

Matthew Tkachuk, Patrik Laine, Kyle Connor and Mikko Rantanen all ended their restricted free agent stand still and signed contracts with the Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets (x2) and Colorado Avalanche respectively. Who were the winners and losers of the latest round of deals?

With one team left to preview, it's time to do the Atlantic division. What is the silver lining this season for the Senators and Red Wings? Can the Sabres take the necessary next step? Are Sergei Bobrovsky and Joel Quenneville enough for the Florida Panthers? Can the top 3 of Toronto, Boston and Tampa stay as the top 3?

A new format for Hi Sticking is announced! Pick 1 forward, 1 defenseman, and 1 goalie every week, running Monday to Sunday. You get 2 points for a goal, 1 point for an assist, 1 point for a win and 2 points for a shutout. Whatever they get that week, you earn too!

The Pavel Bure Must Watch Games are back too! What games are must watch for week 1?

All this and more on episode 250 of the 4th Line Hockey Podcast!

Thanks to Fred for joining us!

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Intro music by Erik Hall of Ane Croft

anecroftmusic.bandcamp.com/releases

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