Grey's Anatomy Premiere: What to Watch For

The two-hour season premiere of Grey's Anatomy is now a mere week away. If you've followed any news and/or Grey's Anatomy spoilers this offseason, you know there's a lot up in the air at this point.

There's so much to digest, it's hard to know what to expect, and the season hasn't even started yet. Rest assured, heads will be spinning and hearts will be pounding by the time 11 p.m. rolls around.

Here's a look at five keys to the much-anticipated return ...

The return of laughter. Grey's is at its best when there are light-hearted moments to compliment the drama, and Mark and Jackson deliver that and then some, courtesy of Jackson's newfound interest in plastics.

Mark can't help but be impressed by his protege's skill, even if there's awkwardness over the whole Lexie thing. Speaking of which, there's allegedly a little something that will keep the Mark-Lexie hope alive. 

April's first time: Running the show, that is. It doesn't go well at all as Dr. Kepner cannot rein in headstrong doctors - to the detriment of all. How bad is it? Will she make it past her first day? Stay tuned.

Sinkhole heroes: Get ready for some wonderful guest stars heartbreakingly fighting for their lives.

Ongoing issues: Derek still isn't over the clinical trial blowup, and Meredith is reeling. But life and work and motherhood go on. At least for some. Get ready to be surprised by how certain issues are resolved.

You thinking what we're thinking regarding Cristina?

Heartbreak in Seattle: To hear E! tell it, there could be full-on bawling by the end of the episode, as Shonda Rhimes again "brings us to tears and sets up what we hope will be a good fight." Make of that what you will.

In short, vintage Grey's Anatomy. Share your predictions and hopes for the premiere here!

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.