Is there anyone else who just realized that the National Hockey League has officially begun? Amidst playoff races in baseball and the start of the National Football League, hockey is here anew.

In case you do not remember, the Stanley Cup was won last season by Anaheim ... I'm pretty sure.

Practices and training camps have begun across North America. In fact, there have even been exhibition games! Not to mention cuts are being made and rosters are filling out.

The regular season begins in two weeks, so here is my NHL preview:

- MVP: Paul Kariya
- Rookie of the Year: Erik Johnson
- Vezina Trophy: Manny Legace
- Stanley Cup: St. Louis Blues

Even though hockey isn't exactly my forte, I do follow the Blues and watch some games here and there. It would help tremendously if all the games were in hi-def, but I'd be satisfied just to be able to watch the Blues without having to go past channel 600 on DirecTV.

Either way, gear up - another hockey season is just around the corner for most Americans to ignore.