The Washington Capitals are set to open their season in early October, as the NHL released their official 84-game slate on Thursday.

Washington's season kicks off on Oct. 2 with a visit to Lenovo Center, where they'll take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes. Then, they'll head directly to Tampa to face off against John Carlson and the Lightning the next day.

The Capitals will then return home on Oct. 7 for their opener against the rival Pittsburgh Penguins.

Here are more key dates and the full schedule:

Key Washington Capitals dates:

Friday, Oct. 2 — Capitals open the season against the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes

Saturday, Oct. 3 — Capitals face John Carlson for the first time as they visit Tampa

Wednesday, Oct. 7 — Capitals open the season at home as Alex Ovechkin faces off against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins

Friday Nov. 27 — Capitals host the Florida Panthers on Black Friday.

Monday, Dec. 21 — Capitals visit Gavin McKenna and the Toronto Maple Leafs before the holiday break.

Monday, Dec. 28 — Capitals host Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers.

Monday, Jan. 4 — McKenna and the Leafs visit the Capitals in D.C.

Thursday, Jan. 14 — Capitals host the Hurricanes

Sunday, Feb. 14 — Capitals host the Utah Mammoth on Super Bowl Sunday

Friday, Feb. 19 — Capitals host Macklin Celebrini and the San Jose Sharks

Monday, March 15 — John Carlson makes his return to Capital One Arena as the Capitals host the Lightning.

Tuesday, March 30 — Capitals host Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks

Sunday, April 4 — Capitals host the Penguins in their home finale

Full Capitals schedule: