I agree that a good start is essential to successful season. Of course, anything can happen, but starting out well, makes an already difficult situation more manageable. The season no longer starts with a bunch of games off, like the old days. I think we play 25 games in the first 26 days.
Starting at home with 3 v BAL, then 3 v PIT is helpful, if we are to start out well. Our first road trip could be tougher (3 @ DET & 4 @ TBR), then back home for 4 v LAA & 3 v MN. The next road trip is not horrible, either: 3 @ MIL & 3 @ BAL. We have a day off then finish April with 3 v CLE at home. The start to May is tough.
April Games
6 BAL
4 TBR & LAA
3 PIT, DET, MN, MIL, CLE