I too feel a good deal of anticipation, but, not a much excitment as actual playoff hockey.  I am looking forward to the changes Bob will be making though I wil resist the temptation to speculate.  Draft day is another time I find most interesting, with all the background dealings for position and trades that occur when all the GM's are in the same room.  There are many compelling reasons to follow hockey developments during the off season and this year promises to be a year of intrigue as most teams now have a stronger grasp of the direction the game is taking and the salary cap bugs that should now be worked out.