Hedman, Kane debut in Lightning-Thrashers

LIGHTNING (0-0-0) at THRASHERS (0-0-0)

Season series: This is their first meeting. Last season, the Thrashers dominated the Lightning, going 4-1-1 with three of the victories coming in regulation.

Big Story: Two teams that weren't close to the playoffs last season are looking to get off on the right foot. Victor Hedman, the No. 2 pick in the 2009 Entry Draft, will make his Lightning debut.

Team Scope:

Lightning: It was a season of turmoil in 2008-09. After revamping the roster in the offseason, Barry Melrose was replaced as coach by Rick Tocchet after only 16 games. Steven Stamkos will look to carry his solid second half of last season into the start of this season.

Thrashers: Nik Antropov and Pavel Kubina were added during the offseason to bolster the offense. Fourth overall pick Evander Kane made the roster and will be in the lineup Saturday.

Who's Hot: Stamkos scored 2 goals in the Lightning's 5-1 against the Thrashers in the final preseason game for both teams. Antropov picked up a goal and 4 assists during the exhibition schedule.

Injury Report: The Lightning have no notable injuries. Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen is on injured reserve while he recovers from offseason surgery on his back. He's reportedly still several weeks away from returning.

Stat Pack: Of players who appeared in at least 55 games last season for Tampa Bay, only Martin St. Louis (plus-4), Ryan Malone (plus-4) and Evgeny Artyukhin (plus-1) were plus players. Artyukhin is now in Anaheim.

Puck Drop: The Lightning have just one victory in their last seven games in Atlanta.

-- Dave Lozo, NHL.com