Although there was much criticism and cynicism during the National Hockey League’s latest lockout, hockey at its highest level is back and fans are excited.

According to a video released by the NHL: “There are people out there that look at something like hockey and they want the game to matter, so it does.”

If you’re a hockey fan it’s hard to argue against that.

In all, 26 of the league’s 30 teams are in action on opening day and there are some explosive matchups.

Among the Canadian teams, things get started in the afternoon with an all-Canadian battle between the Ottawa Senators and Winnipeg Jets.

Then hockey’s greatest rivalry is renewed when the Toronto Maple Leafs visit the Montreal Canadiens in an original six matchup.

Opening day is capped off by the Vancouver Canucks, led by starting goalie Cory Schneider as they host the Anaheim Ducks in a Western showdown.

Ladies and gentlemen, hockey is back.