The NHL will have 116 consecutive days of hockey between January 13 and May 8. The top four teams in each Division will qualify for the playoffs.

The cap-strapped Lightning will raise their banner on January 13 when they host the Blackhawks, as they begin their chase for a second straight championship. 

Star winger Nikita Kucherov will miss the regular season due to surgery, but the team hopes to have him back for the playoffs. The Bolts expect to have a healthy Steven Stamkos return for the season-opener, and the team continues to have high expectations.

North Division Playoff Predictions: Maple Leafs, Canadiens, Canucks, Oilers

West Division Playoff Predictions: Avalanche, Golden Knights, Blues, Wild

East Division Playoff Predictions: Bruins, Islanders, Flyers, Capitals

Central Division Playoff Predictions: Lightning, Blue Jackets, Stars, Predators

2021 Stanley Cup Champions: Lightning