Aloha, Canes fans. I'm taking a Super-Fun-Hockey-Road-Trip over the holidays, with a stop in the Raleigh area. I plan to attend the Canes-Leafs game on December 29th, and since you guys and gals are presumably the experts, I'm here in search of any advice you might have on visiting the arena and/or buying tickets.

Are there any seats that I should avoid or that have significant drawbacks?

Is there a good place to pre-game?

I'll have a bit of time to kill in Raleigh the next morning. Is there anything in particular that I should try to do while I'm there?

Obviously North Carolina hasn't been doing too well lately, but are they managing to put forth some decent efforts, at least? i.e. How are they looking to you these days, despite their record?

Etcetera, etcetera.

Thanks in advance for your help!