The 2016-17 boys’ high school hockey schedule was recently released, setting the stage for dozens of early-season matchups dripping with intrigue.

The season will officially begin on Nov. 22, with North St. Paul playing Class 2A, Section 4 rival Mounds View and Osseo facing Rogers in North Metro action.

Perhaps the most anticipated game of the early weeks will be played on Dec. 2, when defending Class 1A champion Hermantown will face defending Class 2A champ Wayzata at the Plymouth Ice Center.

Hermantown returns a significant portion of its players from last season’s roster, led by senior forward Ryan Sandelin (27 goals, 37 assists, 64 points) and fellow senior forward Jesse Jacques (21-37- 58). Junior forward Tyler Watkins (12-17- 29) also returns after an impressive first season at the varsity level.

Wayzata should return its leading goal scorer in junior forward and University of Minnesota commit Colin Schmidt (13-13- 26) and University of Nebraska-Omaha commit junior Grant Anderson on the blue line.

Nov. 26: St. Paul Academy at Mahtomedi

Nov. 26: St. Thomas Academy at Minnetonka

Dec. 1: Bemidji at Moorhead

Dec. 1: Lakeville South at Stillwater

Dec. 3: Grand Rapids at Benilde-St. Margaret’s