Toronto Marlies: Games to Gun for

Games to gun for will go over specific games and opponents fans might want to see. Criteria are based upon AHL rivalries, fun teams to watch in the AHL and regional rivalries between the local NHL teams. Consider it a guide for casual fans to know how to get the biggest bang for their buck.

Creative Commons: James DiBianco

Toronto Marlies are a rare situation in that big bro operates in the same town. This helps feed some local rivalries, and such, helps make all the players more recognizable in the community, but as I said before, I wish they spread that love a little more. But then again, Toronto is pretty hockey hungry, so it isn't like it's a weak market. Plus little brother did what big brother didn't do last year in that they saw the playoffs. Knocked out in the first round, yes, but they at least made it. 

Full disclosure, the Marlies are the only team to follow me back on Twitter. Does that mean they get more favorable coverage? Yes. Because I'm petty like that. If that bugs you, grow a pair or get your team to follow me. I also accept bribes
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Home Opener: 10/9Opponent: Manitoba Moose

Analysis: Toronto starts off with back to back against Manitoba, so if you miss Friday, you can always catch an encore Saturday. It's a situation that pops up repeatedly throughout the schedule, opponents getting stacked so for a while you see one opponent and move on to the next. It's an interesting strategy. Rivalries aren't as passionate in the AHL, so thought process seems to be, save on travel, and let the regulars grow to hate them over short time. That said, Manitoba is non-division so opening weekend is inconsequential to a point, a good chance to focus on the home team and see their skills in a game that matters less.

1. Utica Comets

This rivalry is all about last year and the road to the Calder Cup. The Comets are a tough team with a rabid fan base that stand directly in the path of the Marlies. Last year the two teams ended up with even records against each other and both made the playoffs. If the Marlies want to get a cup, they have to halt the meteoric rise of the Comets. It works out well that these two will face off eight times since the time they spend on the ice together will go a long way in determining this divisions standings.

2. St. John's Icecaps

The new look Icecaps seek to be a serious new rival to the Marlies, which is perfect because that new look is from one of big brothers biggest rivals: the Canadiens. This is where the geographic conditions can help a rivalry because ice caps have a chance to distill that hatred and pour it on top of the AHL rivalry. I anticipate lot of bad blood during these match ups. These two teams face off twelve times, six of which will be at home so there will be plenty of time for tensions to rise between these two.

3. Binghamton Senators

Another AHL rivalry made better by the bitterness of the NHL rivalry. It certainly helps Binghamton isn't a slouch, having made the playoffs three of the past five years. Sure, last year they weren't as hot, but they have always seemed to bounce back... They will play three times at home, six times total.

4. Rochester Americans

It's a historic season for the Americans, so expect a lot of fight from them. And then some fight from the Marlies. Then some fight among the rival big brothers of the two. They also face off a total of eight times, four at home.

5. Albany Devils

The Albany Devils are not what I call the best of the best, but they are a decent NHL rivalry in Toronto. Some of that carries down, and like Bridgeport, Albany is the team most likely to let itself get beat up in this division, so its a good shot at a win. They play six times, three at home