The DEL meets the NLA as Mannheim and Lugano get under way in the 2016/17 Champions Hockey League.
After a disappointing debut in the Champions Hockey League two seasons ago, finishing last in their group, Die Adler bounced back last season by winning their group and progressing to the Round of 32 where they were eliminated by the Espoo Blues. Having never faced Swiss opposition in the CHL, it will ne a new experience for the Mannheim club.
HC Lugano make their debut in the CHL this season, having made their first NLA finals in over five years to qualify for this competition. With Daniel Sondell, Patrik Zackrisson, Dario Burgler, and Ryan Gardner as additions to the team, coach Doug Shedden now wants his side to overcome losing two finals last year in Switzerland and make a mark in the Champions League.