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It’s getting a bit tiresome to continue writing about the Predators and their need for a response as they continue to look like a hot-and-cold team.
Nashville Predators
There’s not much left to write about the Predators. Some games, they look like a Stanley Cup contender. In other games, they look discombobulated and lack energy. There’s a growing frustration among fans who wonder if the Preds lack a critical piece to elevate them above most of the crowd at the top of the NHL standings.
Nick Bonino and Austin Watson scored for the Predators on Saturday evening. Colin Blackwell made his NHL debut, and Juuse Saros was hung out to dry by his teammates in goal.
Ryan Johansen will serve the second of his two-game suspension today. Expect Blackwell back in the lineup. Miikka Salomäki, Zac Rinaldo, and Kyle Turris are still on injured reserve.
The Predators face Colorado today and Vegas on Wednesday ahead of the All-Star Game break.
Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche just stomped the L.A. Kings into the ground. They’re on an upward trajectory after going winless for a streak of games.
The top line of the Avalanche is absolutely one of the best in the NHL. Mikko Rantanen has 73 points (23 goals, 50 assists). Nathan MacKinnon has 70 points (27 goals, 43 assists), and Gabriel Landeskog has 54 points (29 goals, 25 assists).
Tyson Barrie leads Colorado defenders with 37 points (5 goals, 32 assists). Former Predator Samuel Girard has 13 points (2 goals, 11 assists) and other former Predator Colin Wilson has 15 points (9 goals, 6 assists).
The Avs’ recent losing streak wasn’t too good to their goalies. Semyon Varlamov has a .908 Sv% over 30 games and Philipp Grubauer has a .895 Sv% over 20 games.
Colorado is eight points behind Nashville in the Central Division. They’re holding down third place, barely ahead of Dallas and Minnesota.
Memories and Feelings
- I’m feeling concerned about my Predators.
- Samuel Girard is a treat to watch.
Reasons to Watch
- Holiday hockey! Although some of us aren’t off today, afternoon hockey is a bonus.
Avalanche Social Media
- @Avalanche
- @MileHighHockey: The Avs’ SB Nation Site is Mile High Hockey.
Today’s Theme Song
“Come As You Are” by Nirvana.
Today’s Beverage of Choice
A hot toddy is a perfect choice for a cold day like today.
How to Watch
This afternoon’s puck drop is at 2:00 Central. Catch the game on FS-TN or grab the radio call on 102.5 The Game.