A young hockey player expressed deep emotion ahead of a high-stakes matchup, reflecting on the pressure and significance of the game. The conversation took place just one day before the team’s season opener against a rival franchise. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the player’s mindset translates onto the ice. The atmosphere at the arena is expected to be charged as the season kicks off.

Very emotional.” Lombardi, 23, was talking on Wednesday, a day before the opener against the Philadelphia Flyers at Prudential Cen ...