5 must-see games on the 2018-19 NHL schedule

Mark your calendars: The NHL schedule is here.

The league announced the full slate of games for the 2018-19 season Thursday afternoon. The schedule offers plenty of reasons to be excited - and once the dust settles on the draft and free agency, hockey fans won't have much else to cling to.

Here are five must-see games to circle for 2018-19.

Maple Leafs vs. Canadiens - Oct. 3

The first game of the new campaign features the two oldest franchises in the league. The historic rivals routinely provide entertaining games, and above all else, they'll signal that hockey is officially back.

Opening night also features Washington's banner-raising ceremony, which should pale in comparison to some of the Capitals' celebrations this offseason.

Sabres vs. Bruins - Oct. 4

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It's time to usher in the Rasmus Dahlin era in Buffalo, and hockey fans will get their first glimpse of the Swedish phenom and presumptive No. 1 pick when the Sabres open their season versus the Bruins.

The hype surrounding Dahlin is enormous, as his game has been compared to fellow countrymen Nicklas Lidstrom and Erik Karlsson. The 18-year-old recorded 20 points in 41 games for Frolunda in the SHL last season, and also represented Sweden at the world juniors and Olympics. His arrival in Buffalo could serve as the turning point the franchise has long been seeking.

Devils vs. Oilers - Oct. 6

The Devils and Oilers will kick off their seasons across the pond in Gothenburg, Sweden as part of the 2018 NHL Global Series. The matchup features the last two MVPs, as Connor McDavid and Taylor Hall will renew acquaintances, plus a serious dose of Swedish talent, including Oscar Klefbom, Adam Larsson, and Marcus Johansson.

The second installment of the Global Series takes place in November, when the Florida Panthers and Winnipeg Jets travel to Helsinki, Finland.

Bruins vs. Blackhawks - Jan. 1

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You're never going to believe this, but the Chicago Blackhawks are scheduled to play in an outdoor game.

After a one-year break, the Blackhawks will suit up in their sixth outdoor game, this time versus the Bruins in the Winter Classic at Notre Dame Stadium. Both teams have played their fair share of hockey outside over the last few years, but the combined star power, the venue, and the potential for two retro-based Original Six jerseys should make this matchup worthwhile.

Islanders vs. Capitals - Jan. 18

After compiling a 205-89-34 record over four seasons with the Capitals, Barry Trotz will return to Washington on the visitor's bench after agreeing to a five-year deal with the Islanders.

Trotz's departure may not have been totally shocking, as it was known he was in need of a new deal, but it's uncommon for a head coach to leave after winning the Stanley Cup. His return to D.C. should provide some closure and help create quite an atmosphere - especially if the Isles and Caps are jockeying for position in the Metropolitan Division.

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