Final: Nashville 4 - Buffalo 1
This game was all Nashville from the get go. The Predators played with a lot of energy coming off of an overtime victory in a game they should've won walking away. The team played much more deliberately in the third period as they protected a two goal advantage before Gaustad sealed the deal with an empty net goal. Nick Spaling kept up his scoring after his return from a minor injury. Craig Smith tallied his team-leading 20th goal, the first Predator to do so in 2 seasons since Hornqvist and Fisher both did it in the 2011-12 season. Shea Weber rounds out the Predators scorers and now trails Karlsson by 1 goal as the highest scoring defenseman, a statistic that helped Karlsson trump Weber for the Norris trophy two years ago. The Predators have scored 4 goals now in each of their last 2 contests, perhaps this is a sign of things to come.
Just when I started to doubt him Colin Wilson has proven me right and shown that he is indeed capable of anchoring the Predators at the Center position. He had two assists last night following his point in the Ottawa game on Monday. His passing is crisp, he is calm and deliberate with the puck, his positioning has few holes, and he is physical in the neutral zone. Also impressive was his 61.5% wins in the faceoff circle taking some of the defensive zone pressure off of Gaustad. These past two games have been glimpses at his potential and I am reaffirming my position that Wilson, along with Smith, will eventually become a star on this Predators team.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Weekend Rewind
Going into last night's contest with the Ottawa Senators Pekka Rinne had played phenomenally since his return. If you had told me ahead of last night's game that Rinne would have a gaa of 2.02 and a save percentage of .922, I would have thought we had won at least 2 of the 3. To put up those kinds of numbers in the first three games back from a bacterial infection that cost him 51 games this season is impressive enough, that two of those games were against St. Louis and Pittsburgh makes it even more of an accomplishment. While those numbers are a testament to the work on the defensive end that the Predators are putting in, a quick review of the film shows that Rinne is literally spinning on his head to keep the puck out of the net. Unfortunately, the Predators' offense remains anemic and instead those 3 games have resulted in 3 losses, all but eliminating Nashville from the playoffs. That didn't change their intensity going into the game with Ottawa last night as the Predators pulled out a win in overtime.
The offense came alive in the second period putting pucks past Anderson, surprisingly enough it came on even strength opportunities. In the third period the Predators got sloppy and allowed the Senators to tie up the contest on three goals that showed a lack of interest and positioning. Overtime was a different story as Nashville closed down space in the neutral zone and possessed the puck with more authority. Following a bit of skillful poke-checking the Predators came down on the break and the puck was dropped off to a trailing Seth Jones. The rookie found a lane to the net and lit the horn for a game winner for the first time in the last 5 games. The Predators are playing for pride at this point, and losing for a draft pick. The remainder of the season will show how much forward thinking is being put into the lineup.
The offense came alive in the second period putting pucks past Anderson, surprisingly enough it came on even strength opportunities. In the third period the Predators got sloppy and allowed the Senators to tie up the contest on three goals that showed a lack of interest and positioning. Overtime was a different story as Nashville closed down space in the neutral zone and possessed the puck with more authority. Following a bit of skillful poke-checking the Predators came down on the break and the puck was dropped off to a trailing Seth Jones. The rookie found a lane to the net and lit the horn for a game winner for the first time in the last 5 games. The Predators are playing for pride at this point, and losing for a draft pick. The remainder of the season will show how much forward thinking is being put into the lineup.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Nashville Predators vs. St. Louis Blues Rewind
Another loss. The number of points the Predators have to play with and still hope to make the playoffs is dwindling. Last night's loss was particularly heartbreaking because much like Saturday's contest, the Predators had many opportunities to secure the victory. Chances were there, but once again the forwards failed to put the puck in the back of the net more often than not. Part of that can be attributed to Ryan Miller's phenomenal play as he has 3 victories in 3 appearances for the Blues since his trade. Nashville did an excellent job on defense closing down space and limiting opportunities. St. Louis came in averaging 3.23 goals per game so they were do their fair share of scoring chances, but the defense kept them few and far between and Rinne put on another spectacular performance. It was a physical game where St. Louis checked the Predators players every time they touched the puck. In the end, St. Louis made the most of their chances and went home with the win.
Colin Wilson struggled a bit in his new role following the departure of David Legwand. His presence on the puck was formidable, but he still lacks a bit in terms of decision-making and execution on the break. If he can continue to develop I expect him to bring the Predators considerable success. Following this loss, the Predators' chances to make the playoffs are significantly diminished and I hope that means we will see more of our prospects suiting up for Nashville rather than Milwaukee. I think it will be interesting to see how our young guys have developed. In addition Nashville are likely headed towards a relatively high draft pick in a strong class. Poile has a tendency to draft well, so that could be another silver lining for fans of the franchise.
Colin Wilson struggled a bit in his new role following the departure of David Legwand. His presence on the puck was formidable, but he still lacks a bit in terms of decision-making and execution on the break. If he can continue to develop I expect him to bring the Predators considerable success. Following this loss, the Predators' chances to make the playoffs are significantly diminished and I hope that means we will see more of our prospects suiting up for Nashville rather than Milwaukee. I think it will be interesting to see how our young guys have developed. In addition Nashville are likely headed towards a relatively high draft pick in a strong class. Poile has a tendency to draft well, so that could be another silver lining for fans of the franchise.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Nashville Predators vs. St. Louis Blues Preview
Tonight's game will seem like something is missing. That something is a player that has been with the organization for 15 years. David Legwand was the first ever draft pick by the Nashville Predators, second overall. Yesterday, at the deadline, Nashville moved on from the lifelong Predators in exchange for a waning Patrick Eaves, a promising prospect in Calle Jarnkrok, and a precious draft pick. The trade makes sense for the long term, but it is also a move that cries "not this year" for Nashville's playoff hopes. The roster will undoubtedly be shaken up moving forward.
St. Louis has been a force as of late and the addition of Ryan Miller has made the squad even better. Rinne will have his work cut out for him in his second game back as the Blues have brought a solemn tone to Broadway over their last few trips. Nashville will look to shut down TJ Oshie and the scoring attack of the blues and likely rely on scoring from the back as they typically have had to do. If there is one thing to look forward to, it is that St. Louis routinely takes a lot of penalties and if the Nashville powerplay squad can step up they can keep the Predators in this one.
Colin Wilson will be moved up to the center of the first line, a position that has been coming for a long time. I have always thought Wilson possessed the talent to be a star in this league and tonight marks the next step in the right direction. The Predators will need some offensive ingenuity as well as some faceoff dominance from Legwand's replacement, but if anyone can deliver it will be the big 33. Wilson is a physical player with imposing size, his puck control is evident and now playing on a line with experienced players on the wing he can potentially make something happen for the ailing Predators scoring attack.
As the season progresses the Predators position for the playoffs will likely influence how many prospects the Predators bring up for experience. Simon Moser was reassigned to the minors after struggling to make an impact in the last couple of games. Jarnkrok has spent some time on the ice with Filup Forsberg in the world championships and I for one would like to see the two on the ice in Predators jerseys. Time will tell how much of a sneak peak Poile and Trotz will give us, but a fan can dream can't I?
Prediction: Nashville 2, St. Louis 4
St. Louis has been a force as of late and the addition of Ryan Miller has made the squad even better. Rinne will have his work cut out for him in his second game back as the Blues have brought a solemn tone to Broadway over their last few trips. Nashville will look to shut down TJ Oshie and the scoring attack of the blues and likely rely on scoring from the back as they typically have had to do. If there is one thing to look forward to, it is that St. Louis routinely takes a lot of penalties and if the Nashville powerplay squad can step up they can keep the Predators in this one.
Colin Wilson will be moved up to the center of the first line, a position that has been coming for a long time. I have always thought Wilson possessed the talent to be a star in this league and tonight marks the next step in the right direction. The Predators will need some offensive ingenuity as well as some faceoff dominance from Legwand's replacement, but if anyone can deliver it will be the big 33. Wilson is a physical player with imposing size, his puck control is evident and now playing on a line with experienced players on the wing he can potentially make something happen for the ailing Predators scoring attack.
As the season progresses the Predators position for the playoffs will likely influence how many prospects the Predators bring up for experience. Simon Moser was reassigned to the minors after struggling to make an impact in the last couple of games. Jarnkrok has spent some time on the ice with Filup Forsberg in the world championships and I for one would like to see the two on the ice in Predators jerseys. Time will tell how much of a sneak peak Poile and Trotz will give us, but a fan can dream can't I?
Prediction: Nashville 2, St. Louis 4
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Nashville Predators vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Rewind
Rinne Shines in Predators loss
The biggest thing to take away is that Pekka Rinne looked amazing. The save above came early in the first period on a play that usually leads to an easy goal. Kunitz and Crosby are one of the most lethal pairings in the NHL and Rinne robbed Kunitz on what seemed like a tap in. When interviewed from the bench Carter Hutton confirmed that the team collectively fed off the energy from that save. He went on to explain how seeing Rinne make such a tremendous save almost immediately in his first game back from his bacterial infection gave the team confidence and inspiration as they prepare for this push for the playoffs.
I said that this game could serve as an audition for David Legwand should Poile decide to move him, if that was the case then Legwand will undoubtedly remain a Predators. There were flashes of greatness especially in the faceoff circle where he routinely bested Crosby and on a particularly impressive shielding defensive play as Crosby drove to the net. However, the rest of his game was peppered with sloppy passing, costly turnovers, and a general lack of positioning. I'm hesitant to be critical of such a tremendous player, but I don't see this performance warranting a high enough return for Poile and Legwand to sign off on it.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Nashville Predators vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Preview
Nashville fans will cringe when they see the Penguins as their next opponent following a heart-breaking loss in a must-win game where the Predators probably should have won. Tonight scoring chances will be far more precious as the Penguins have one of the highest scoring offenses in the league. Fear not Predators fans as Nashville is 5-0-1 against Pittsburgh when they play in the Music City. Pittsburgh takes very few bad penalties so the power play squad will have to come up big on the opportunities they do get.
The keys to a Nashville victory tonight are pretty obvious. The first will be how the Predators blue liners match up with the high powered offense of the Penguins. Sidney Crosby is scoring at a blistering pace putting up 80 points with a quarter of the season remaining. If Shea Weber and Roman Josi can limit the space the Penguins have to operate on the rush, and the forwards can wear Pittsburgh down on the forecheck the Predators can turn this into a gritty, physical contest where the Penguins are typically uncomfortable. This method of attack has been successful in years past in Bridgestone and should be the primary focus if Nashville wants to come out on top tonight.
Broadway and 5th will be rocking tonight as it marks the return of the former Vezina-finalist Pekka Rinne. Not only is Rinne a star goaltender, but he is also a fan favorite. His imposing frame planted firmly between the pipes will boost the confidence of his teammates and the raucous atmosphere will give the team a surge of energy. Don't be surprised if we see a bit of rust from Rinne, but I expect the defense to limit the shots he has to face early and once he gets a good groove going he can take over from there. How Rinne handles the chances he faces in the first period will determine the outcome of this matchup.
Many analysts would agree that Saturday's contest likely helped move Poile's hand more towards a seller than a buyer. That in mind, this game will likely be an audition for David Legwand should the Predators decide to ship the original Predator out at the deadline. Pittsburgh is a likely opponent in the playoffs for teams at the top of the league and Legwand's performance tonight will show whether he can make an impact against the top teams, or if the rumors circulating around him are simply due to the low number of attractive options at center. While I hope his performance is good enough to bring Nashville a win, I hope it is poor enough to keep him in Nashville!
Prediction: Nashville 2, Pittsburgh 3 OT
The keys to a Nashville victory tonight are pretty obvious. The first will be how the Predators blue liners match up with the high powered offense of the Penguins. Sidney Crosby is scoring at a blistering pace putting up 80 points with a quarter of the season remaining. If Shea Weber and Roman Josi can limit the space the Penguins have to operate on the rush, and the forwards can wear Pittsburgh down on the forecheck the Predators can turn this into a gritty, physical contest where the Penguins are typically uncomfortable. This method of attack has been successful in years past in Bridgestone and should be the primary focus if Nashville wants to come out on top tonight.
Broadway and 5th will be rocking tonight as it marks the return of the former Vezina-finalist Pekka Rinne. Not only is Rinne a star goaltender, but he is also a fan favorite. His imposing frame planted firmly between the pipes will boost the confidence of his teammates and the raucous atmosphere will give the team a surge of energy. Don't be surprised if we see a bit of rust from Rinne, but I expect the defense to limit the shots he has to face early and once he gets a good groove going he can take over from there. How Rinne handles the chances he faces in the first period will determine the outcome of this matchup.
Many analysts would agree that Saturday's contest likely helped move Poile's hand more towards a seller than a buyer. That in mind, this game will likely be an audition for David Legwand should the Predators decide to ship the original Predator out at the deadline. Pittsburgh is a likely opponent in the playoffs for teams at the top of the league and Legwand's performance tonight will show whether he can make an impact against the top teams, or if the rumors circulating around him are simply due to the low number of attractive options at center. While I hope his performance is good enough to bring Nashville a win, I hope it is poor enough to keep him in Nashville!
Prediction: Nashville 2, Pittsburgh 3 OT
Monday, March 3, 2014
Weekend Rewind
Just like that Nashville's playoff hopes took a significant hit. The Predators dropped a critical game on Saturday falling to the Winnipeg Jets by a score of 3-1. Nashville dominated the scoring chances, but failed to find the net while the Jets capitalized on mistakes and made the most of their chances. Carter Hutton gave up two goals that he probably should've stopped, characteristic of the inconsistent netminder, but the loss was certainly a reflection of the Nashville forwards' inability to score. The power play squad was unable to bail out the Nashville offense and while the defense was exceptional for most of the day, the few lapses allowed the Jets to score. A chance to tie Winnipeg on a weekend where Vancouver and Phoenix both dropped their games, the Predators failed to seize critical points headed into a contest with the Penguins.
The Predators do have something to look forward to when they challenge Pittsburgh on Tuesday night, the return of Pekka Rinne! Nashville has chosen a troubling matchup to unveil the ailing goaltender as Pittsburgh has a high-powered offense, but nonetheless Predators fans will be eager to see the big 35 back between the pipes. Rinne looked healthy in his brief stint in Milwaukee and although he faced few chances he looked sharp on the opportunities he did face. The defense will look to close down space on Crosby and the other shooters on Tuesday to give Rinne some assistance.
A friend of mine asked me what I would do at the trade deadline if I was Nashville. I thought about it and I decided I would like to see the Predators move for Vanek. A trade like this is really unlikely, but one has to admit it would be intriguing. Poile can offer some draft picks and a young defensive prospect, no doubt what the Islanders would be looking for since their season is circling the drain, in exchange for a proven goal scorer. Nashville also has one of the best goalies as well as one of the best defenders in the league locked into long term contracts. Explaining that to Vanek while also showing that all the Predators need to become true title contenders is an offensive powerhouse might even persuade Vanek to sign a contract leading into the playoffs. It won't happen, but it's fun to think about.
The Predators do have something to look forward to when they challenge Pittsburgh on Tuesday night, the return of Pekka Rinne! Nashville has chosen a troubling matchup to unveil the ailing goaltender as Pittsburgh has a high-powered offense, but nonetheless Predators fans will be eager to see the big 35 back between the pipes. Rinne looked healthy in his brief stint in Milwaukee and although he faced few chances he looked sharp on the opportunities he did face. The defense will look to close down space on Crosby and the other shooters on Tuesday to give Rinne some assistance.
A friend of mine asked me what I would do at the trade deadline if I was Nashville. I thought about it and I decided I would like to see the Predators move for Vanek. A trade like this is really unlikely, but one has to admit it would be intriguing. Poile can offer some draft picks and a young defensive prospect, no doubt what the Islanders would be looking for since their season is circling the drain, in exchange for a proven goal scorer. Nashville also has one of the best goalies as well as one of the best defenders in the league locked into long term contracts. Explaining that to Vanek while also showing that all the Predators need to become true title contenders is an offensive powerhouse might even persuade Vanek to sign a contract leading into the playoffs. It won't happen, but it's fun to think about.
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