Kings fans, the long wait is almost over. The L.A. Kings will finally take to the ice this Saturday when they take on the Vancouver Canucks, the team that eliminated them from the postseason.

This week, changes abound for the Hockeywood Insider. Jesse and I roll out a new format for the show, as well as break in new microphones. By having a more structured show, it should allow us to stay on topic while limit us from babbling (which we'll find ways to do anyway.)

This week, we are joined by USA Today's long time hockey writer and one of NHL Radio's Insiders (which you can download on iTunes), Kevin Allen, who helps take a look ahead at the upcoming season. He talks about how Steve Yzerman's aura has affected the Tampa Bay Lightning, which teams might shock the league and make the playoffs and the others who will disappoint. (Pssssst, Montreal, pay attention.)

He also talks Kings hockey, and discusses how likely Drew Doughty will win the Norris Trophy this season as well as his expectations for the young club. With as much hockey as Mr. Allen has seen, his insights are truly gives a broader appreciation for the sport of hockey.

So stop reading and get to downloading! Don't forget, you can subscribe on iTunes, so you can get the podcast before anyone else does. It's the Hockeywood Insider Podcast, bringing Kings fans exclusive interviews throughout the season!

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