NHL players are set to hit the ice across the U.S. and Canada Saturday as the league kicks off its shortened season.

The four-month lockout officially ended last Saturday, allowing players to attend a week of training camp.

Only 48 games will be played instead of the usual 82, and teams will only play within their own conference.

The playoffs will begin on April 30 and the latest the Stanley Cup Finals will end is June 28.

All three local teams skate Saturday.

The Rangers open their season in Boston, while the Islanders and Devils square off at Nassau Coliseum.

Both games start at 7 p.m.