With the puck about to drop on the NHL season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are continuing efforts to mend fences with their fans after a long lockout.

The buds have taken out full pages in Saturday's Toronto Star & Toronto Sun for a letter to Leafs Nation.

In it, the team acknowledges "the last few months have been tough for everyone who loves our game, then thanks fans for their patience & loyalty.

The Leafs say they are committed to being a team that makes fans proud & to winning.  They underline that their ultimate goal is to be Stanley Cup Champions again.

You can read the full letter below:

Dear Leafs Nation;

At long last the start of the NHL season is here.  Tonight your Toronto Maple Leafs embark on their 96th year as they face the Canadiens in Montreal.  And like you, our players and coaching staff couldn't be happier that hockey is back.

The last few months have been tough for everyone who loves our game.  Thank you for your patience and loyalty.  It has been far too long since we've felt the crisp chill of the ice, heard the sound of the puck as it rings around the boards and seen the sea of blue and white at the Air Canada Centre that is at the heart of Leafs Nation.

The Leafs are committed to being a team that makes you proud.  We are committed to winning.  Our ultimate goal is to be the Stanley Cup Champions again.  It is through this commitment we intend to win back your confidence and reward your loyalty.

To welcome everyone back, we have planned a series of events, including a special night for our Home Opener on Monday and a road game viewing party at Air Canada Centre on February 23.

On behalf of the Maple Leafs staff, management, players and coaches, thank you again for your passion.  We can't wait to get started.

Go Leafs Go!

The Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey Club