Hurricanes Vs. Sabres Preview: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

Returning to action for the first time since coming home from their European adventure, the Buffalo Sabres host the Carolina Hurricanes in their home opener. The Sabres got off to a brilliant start to their season in Europe, scoring eight goals in two wins over the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks. Thomas Vanek is off to an unbelievable start for the Sabres, while new captain Jason Pominville is also playing well. New signings Christian Ehrhoff and Ville Leino are settling in well, and the Sabres look like a force to be reckoned with.

Carolina have some firepower of their own, though, and Calder Trophy winner Jeff Skinner is off to an absolutely brilliant start. He's combining well with Tuomo Ruutu on the second line, while Eric Staal leads the first line. However, Carolina's defense hasn't yet matched the level of their forwards and is going to need to step up against the likes of Leino and Vanek.

Wednesday's battle between 'Canes netminder Cam Ward and Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas was a fantastic one, and this game should be no different. Ryan Miller is off to a great start for Buffalo with a .952 save percentage. Both teams have great forward lines and average defenses, so expect the goalies to have to put on a show to guide their teams to points.

For more on the two teams, check out Hurricanes blog Canes Country and Sabres blog Die By The Blade. For more on the action around the league and all of the latest news, head over to SB Nation NHL.