Don't miss these games

By DAMIAN CRISTODERO and MIKE STEPHENSON
© St. Petersburg Times
published October 10, 2002

The season is here, and it's time to check out the Lightning. Here are the games you don't want to miss:

HURRICANES, SATURDAY: The Lightning opens its home season against the defending Southeast Division and Eastern Conference champions, including Ron Francis, Jeff O'Neill and, maybe, Kevin Weekes. Plus you get a schedule magnet and a pom-pom.

PENGUINS, NOV. 8: Take any chance you can to watch Mario Lemieux. The season will be young, meaning there is a good chance he will be in the lineup.

RED WINGS, JAN. 7: The arena will be full, including many supporters of the defending Stanley Cup champion Wings, and the clash of fans always makes for a plenty of energy.

AVALANCHE, MARCH 7: Colorado hasn't been to Tampa since Dec. 8, 2000. A possible matchup between goalies Patrick Roy and Nikolai Khabibulin might be worth the wait. The first 5,000 fans get a can cooler with the image of Vinny Lecavalier's jersey.

FLYERS, APRIL 4: It's the final home game of the regular season, and the Lightning hopes it will be seeking a boost for the playoffs. Hey, it could happen. If not, take solace in your free team poster.

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