from Kevin Allen of USA TODAY,

With the 2016-17 NHL season set to begin Oct. 12, here’s a look at the top story lines:

Streak in jeopardy: The Detroit Red Wings’ run of 25 consecutive seasons in the playoffs could be over. Pavel Datsyuk has left to play in Russia, and the Red Wings were unable to land any defensive help in the offseason.

Coincidentally, this Red Wings test comes in their final season in Joe Louis Arena. They will move into new arena in 2017-18.

Auston Matthews era begins: The Arizona native showed during the World Cup Hockey that he will have a major impact for the Toronto Maple Leafs in his rookie season.

Only 19, Matthews should be able to score 20-25 goals and register 50-plus points. He is a 6-2 center who can score and create.

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