DENVER (CBS4) – A lot of hockey fans are excited there’s going to be a season, granted a much shorter season.

A few Colorado Avalanche players were skating around Friday at an unofficial practice. They are just excited to get back on the ice. They admit, however, they are going to be rusty. But the good news is the whole league is going to be rusty.

“Guys will be out of shape here and there, but as long as you’re smart with it, manage your shifts,” Avs center Paul Stastny said. “Everyone starts at the same point, so there’s no excuse … it’s all about finding your groove.”

“Every team is in the same boat here … everybody wants to get off to a good start. We’re no different from any other team. The teams want to get out of the gates running. We’re in the same predicament,” Avs head coach Joe Sacco said.

Training camp will start on Sunday as long as the players ratify the new agreement.