From October to early June, the National Hockey League season is in full swing. However, during the summer, the lack of hockey for someone like me isn't too fun. Not having those nights to watch my favorite team, the Philadelphia Flyers, on TV with my friends is a bummer. As big of a fan that I am, there really isn't too much of an off-season for the NHL in my mind. The yearly NHL Entry Draft happens in late June, free agency starts on July 1 and many teams hold their prospect camps for fans to see the future talent in action. For as much as there is that happens over the summer, the excitement for a new season, new players on new teams and watching the 82-chapter story unfold is something fans long for once hockey season ends. Personally, here are five reasons why I miss hockey season:

1. Watching the game with the boys (and sometimes girls).

After a day of class and school work, it can be great to unwind by hanging out with your friends and/or roommates to watch the game. You can even order some food and throw back a couple brews, too. It's a great time.

2. Seeing the great "cellys" some players do.

If you're unfamiliar with the above term, "celly" is a slang term for celebration used by most hockey players and fans. There have been lots of iconic cellys throughout hockey history and seeing one live is just plain awesome. Refer to some examples below to see what I'm talking about. Some of them are straight-up cocky and they get you so pumped.

3. Seeing a good fight(s).

Fighting isn't what it used to be, yet I think it will always have a place in the game. Seeing tensions of a few players boil over and the gloves dropped is a very exciting sight. Take a look:

Fighting in the NHL has evolved in the last few years yet it still remains integral to the roots of the game.

4. Highlight reel goals and beautiful plays.

Not much can make me more excited than seeing a silky smooth goal during a game. Watching the best in the business put away some beautiful goals is a great thing.

5. The unforgettable moments.

Being a hockey fan for so long, I've seen so many exciting things happen while watching the Flyers or just any hockey in general. Seeing those unforgettable moments unfold in front of your eyes is something else. They just stick with you forever. Here are just a couple of the ones that I'll always remember:

After all of this I just have one thing left to say: Is it October yet?