Nashville Predators
After a shootout victory over the Dallas Stars on Sunday, the Preds spent a quiet Monday/trade deadline refueling and healing (hopefully). GM David Poile only made one minor acquisition, bringing Erik Gudbranson from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for minor-leaguer Brandon Fortunato and a 7th round pick.
This quote from Poile really gives us a peek into his current mindset:
“So, all I know is that we made a lot of changes with our club, a lot of things are going the right direction, a lot of younger players are going to be in there, and how I felt to begin the season, or probably more realistically a month into the season, versus how I feel today is like night and day. Much better, much more confident about the future, much more clarity about where we are with our team.”
I’d expect Juuse Saros back in net tonight. There are likely no additions from the injury list, but I’d like to see Rem Pitlick remain in the lineup. Tommy Novak is on the taxi squad and could get a shot over the next few games.
Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning haven’t played since Saturday, so they’re the more rested squad.
The Lightning only made a depth move on Monday, acquiring Fredrick Claesson from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for Magnus Chrona. Our friends at Raw Charge break down that trade here. Oh yeah, and they also got David Savard.
Tampa Bay recalled Alex Barre-Boulet and Mitchell Stephens from the Syracuse Crunch yesterday. Barre-Boulet could see some playing time if captain Steven Stamkos is still out of the lineup.
Reasons to Watch
- Ann’s favorite guy, Rem Pitlick!
- Once again, I’d like to see a better game against the Lightning. Some strong penalty killing is required against the high-voltage Bolts. Getting some pucks behind Andrei Vasilevskiy or Curtis McIlhenny would be great, too.
- In Ryan Johansen’s words, “we’re vibin’!” Let’s see those vibes, boys. /
Tonight’s Theme Song
How to Watch
Tonight’s game is at 7:00 Central. BSSO has the broadcast and 102.5 The Game will have the radio call from Bridgestone Arena.