The set-up: Carolina made it all the way to the Conference Finals somehow last year, but then got swept by the Bruins. Montreal finished fourth in the Atlantic and it'll be looking to get out to a much better start in 2019/20, after getting in an early hole in each of the last two years. The Hurricanes look poised for a massive letdown in my opinion, while the Canadiens look primed to deliver value in the early going. Five of Montreal's top six scorers return. Last year Habs' net minder Carey Price was 1-1-1 vs. the Hurricanes, allowing eight goals on 93 shots.

The pick: Carolina goaltender Petr Mrazek faced Montreal once last year and he gave up five goals on 39 shots. I believe the stage is set for the slight upset on Opening Night. Play on the visitors.

10* play on the Montreal Canadiens.