The National Hockey League begins the 2010-2011 season this week when the Carolina Hurricanes play the Minnesota Wild in Helsinki, Finland.

I became a fan watching the New York Rangers on WWOR, channel 9 in 1985. Cable television was not available in my area at the time so I was only able to watch a handful of games on free television every year. This limited availability made me look forward to each and every game.

I now have cable television and I'm able to see all 82 regular season games, but for those without cable, free televised hockey doesn't start until January 1st 2011 when the outdoor winter classic is televised on network television.

That's sad, but NYPL can help you get in touch with your inner maple leaf. The NYPL has some great DVD collections put together by the NHL. 

• Toronto Maple Leafs: 10 Great Leafs and Their Most Memorable Games
• Calgary Flames: 10 Great Playoff Games
• New York Rangers 1994 Stanley Cup Championship
• Detroit Red Wings Stanley Cup 2007-2008 Champions
• 2009 Stanley Cup Champions Pittsburgh Penguins

If these items aren't available at your local branch you can place them on hold and have them sent there. No need to fight your fellow patrons as there are multiple copies.