Wings' home opener against Babcock, Leafs

Detroit – The Red Wings have their home opener at Joe Louis Arena set for next season and it should be one to remember.

They'll host the Toronto Maple Leafs – and former Detroit coach Mike Babcock – on Friday, Oct. 9 at 7:30 p.m., according to a tweet posted Wednesday by the Red Wings.

It is not known if the Wings' home opener is also their regular-season opener. The complete regular-season schedule is expected to be released Thursday.

Babcock spent the last 10 seasons with the Red Wings, including winning the Stanley Cup in 2008, before leaving for Toronto last month.

It'll also be the debut of new Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill, who served as Babcock's assistant for one season before taking over at minor-league affiliate Grand Rapids the past three seasons.

The Red Wings and Toronto play twice during the exhibition season – at Joe Louis Arena on Oct. 2, and the next night in Toronto.