The 12th SHL season gets underway Wednesday with the Sabres opening their title defense at home against the Bolts. The Sabres are planning to hoist the championship banner as long as the Bernie shows up. If he does not show up then the banner will be wrapped and put into storage until he shows up.

New this season is sim times, now SHL sims will be run in the afternoon. This move will please the Euro general managers while Canadian West Coasters will now see scores scrolling while they eat their tofu for breakfast.

Preseason predications, odds and prognostications are all moot since no one has decided to type up any previews. Good luck to everyone this season and keep your head on a swivel.