In years prior, this game has never been able to truly be pitched as a household rivalry, despite the little distance between the two. There are plenty of other rivalries that are more recognized, such as the California teams facing each other, Vancouver playing Calgary or Edmonton, or New York’s teams facing off.
Interestingly, this game should be watched by a lot more of the NHL than just the people in Florida. As eyes turn to the new season, this is one of, if not the best, opening matchup on Thursday night.