Nashville Predators 4, Detroit Red Wings 3: Weber Wins It In OT

It was a dramatic night at Bridgestone Arena, as Jordin Tootoo scored in his return, he received a standing ovation during a touching video tribute, and the Nashville Predators beat their greatest rival on a goal from their captain, who appears to be picking up steam.

Along the way we had a two-point night for Colin Wilson, who continues to lead the Preds in scoring, a highlight-reel goal from Pavel Datsyuk, and enough sensationalism from Pekka Rinne to keep the team in it despite some furious north-south hockey that isn't typically Nashville's style.

As for Barry Trotz, he's feeling pretty good about Shea Weber's game after a bit of a slow start:

He's scored in three straight games. I think for some of these big guys, it takes a little bit to get going. He's a beast off the ice. He trains very hard off the ice. I think he needs that exhibition season. Every night he's playing against the top players in the world for a lot of minutes. I think he's got his hands and feet going to help his overall game to get going. He's a big contributor.

--- Quote provided by Nashville Predators PR

Random Observations

• I sat with my oldest son in 118 last night, and warned him about Pavel Datsyuk right from the start. It's incredible to watch that guy work up close. While his goal was ridiculous, check out the effort he put in to set up Dan Cleary's - that's a perfect example of the old cliche about "best players being you best players". When the most talented player in the world is also busting his butt on the PK like that, it's a powerful combination.
• The second and third periods were as loose and entertaining as we've seen the Preds play this season. I'm sure the coaching staff isn't crazy about such wide-open action, but for Craig Smith and Gabriel Bourque in particular, I thought it highlighted their speed.
• How about the Jordin Tootoo tribute? I thought it was very well done, and the ovation from the fans was great.
• Speaking of ovations, the first TV Timeout Standing Ovation of the season came in the right way, at the right time. Inspiring, spine-tingling stuff that still works like magic.
• I think my favorite thing abour Colin Wilson's game these days is that he's a consistently impactful power forward - he's got a new physical assertiveness (I wouldn't say aggressive) that makes a difference in battles for the puck and has him winning more often than not.
• It was really nice running into an OTF reader on the way out of the arena after the game. It's always a treat to know you folks are out there!

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