Having failed to get through their group in 2014-15, Berlin made it all the way to the Round of 16 last year before going out to Skelleftea AIK 7-3 over two legs. They also played opposition from Sweden the previous season, beating Djurgarden on penalty shots at home after a narrow road loss. Lulea were unable to defend their champions' title last year, going out in the Quarter-Finals to eventual winners Frolunda. Their only DEL opposition to date was back in the first season, where they beat Hamburg by a combined score of 10-1 in the group stage.

"We are really looking forward to the start of our season tomorrow. Due to the little number of games, every single one will be like a playoff game," commented head coach Uwe Krupp. "We've worked hard during the last weeks and want to put everything into the upcoming two games to win both and represent the DEL and German hockey in an appropriate way."

"We are well prepared, and are really looking forward to another great season with the Champions Hockey League – starting with Eisbaren Berlin will be a good first challenge for us," said new head coach Stefan Nilsson, while winger Karl Fabricius added: "I am really looking forward to playing competitive games again. Our previous experiences with Berlin have been really positive. They have a really cool arena with loud fans that together with our fans will provide a great atmosphere for Friday's game!"