Boy, it’s a little easier to look forward to the weekend after a win like last night’s, eh? For the second time lately, a loss to the lowly Oilers has been followed by victory over an elite team, a nice way to wash away the foul taste of disappointment. The stakes will get larger in the final two games of this current road trip, however, as both Calgary and San Jose are competing with the Preds for playoff position, so it’s not just about earning points, but keeping the other team from getting any as well.
While you’re still basking in the glow, however, follow after the jump for this morning’s hockey news…
The Preds return home Thursday vs. Minnesota, so take the OTF Discount and save money on Nashville Predators tickets for this, or any other home game!
Nashville Predators News
Krazy Kyle Hankins: The Entertainer – Nashville Scene
JRTheBylineGrinder mixes a little hockey work into his day job. Nice.
Preds On The Glass: Predators Take a Roller-Coaster Ride in the Standings and Friday Findings
Did you miss out on a good breakfast this morning? Buddy’s last link will get your tummy rumbling.
O’Brien says Gillis always treated him with respect – Vancouver Sun
When SOB returns to Vancouver, it’s time to rehash the sometimes rocky relationship he had with the Canucks.
The View from 111: Predators Blank the Canucks 3-0
Mark was in the building last night for the big win… maybe the Preds need to sponsor his trip and bring him along for the rest?
Very Superstitious – Predators beat Canucks 3-0 | The Predatorial
Is a loss coming up at Calgary on Sunday? Recent trends might indicate so…
Fang Finger Fever: Rinne, Geoffrion lead Preds past Canucks
Josh is hanging on for what’s becoming a wild ride.
Hockey Night in Nashville: Hamhuis Humiliates Himself; Preds Beat the Best
The Hamhuis-haters really enjoyed Hornqvist’s goal last night.
Preds rebound from Edmonton loss, beat Canucks… | Section 303
Roberto Luongo is 9-10-3 all-time against the Preds? Surprising.
Preds On The Glass: Pekka Rinne Shuts Out Vancouver in 3-0 Win
Buddy casts a vote for no-touch icing after seeing the way Cody Franson got hurt.
Preds On The Glass: NHL Playoff Races Broken Down by Conference
Print these out and you’ll be able to follow the stretch drive to the playoffs.
Predators’ ECHL Affiliate Signs Ryan Suter’s Brother | Section 303
Good luck to Garrett Suter as he makes his way in the world of pro hockey.
Preds talk fighting – Predators Insider
Josh gets the Preds to comment on fighting, in light of the news about Bob Probert from yesterday.
QUICK POLL: Will Patric Hornqvist get to 25 goals? | Section 303
I’d put the over/under right around that mark.
Nashville Predators’ Jordin Tootoo gets first point since return – The Tennessean
Toots is getting into the groove, and I like Trotz’s new nickname for Pekka Rinne, “The Guardian.”
Former Pred Hamhuis can’t wait to visit Nashville – The Tennessean
Dan Hamhuis missed the Canucks/Predators game in Nashville recently due to a concussion, but looks forward to returning here next time. Perhaps the playoffs?
Around the NHL
Bourne Blog: How NHL’s reinforcements rescue injury-plagued teams – Puck Daddy
An article to help you get inside Matt Halischuk‘s head.
Inside the NHL suspension process, through the eyes of Chris Simon – Puck Daddy
Well, they certainly found someone familiar with the process here.
Wake-Up Call: No room for Slap Shot wannabes in NHL – Vancouver Sun
Here’s an idea I’ve heard voiced before, and it bears repeating: when a player gets suspended, the team should have to dress one man short. Losing a thug like Trevor Gillies to suspension probably helps the Islanders win games, it doesn’t penalize them.
High Tide Hockey: Why Leadership and Chemistry Are (Sort of) Real – Matchsticks and Gasoline
Another fine essay on the nature of leadership in hockey. Like I’ve said before, 99% of what fans and media pin on captains is complete baloney. When Shea Weber went nuts on Fedor Tyutin in the waning seconds of the Columbus game, Preds fans oozed with praise over the Captain. If that’s the case, he should carry just as much blame for that boarding late in the previous game against Dallas, which led to the winning PP goal for the Stars.
Questionable motives in Phoenix Coyotes ownership saga – ESPN
Scott Burnside examines just why the Goldwater Institute is obstructing the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes.
Pointing fingers in St. Louis? Point them toward the future – Houses of the Hockey
Another year, another rebuild in the cards for the Blues.
Down Goes Brown: Take the Quiz: Did you make a good trade?
More juicy goodness from DGB.
Brodeur is a Fraud: Get ‘Em While They’re Hot
Another analysis which calls out the San Jose Sharks for making a bad bet on Antti Niemi‘s 4-year, $15.2 million contract.
Queen’s, Guelph play second-longest game in hockey history – Buzzing The Net
It took over 167 minutes of hockey (more than 8 full periods) to decide this one… wow!
SB Nation Acquires Two Great Sports Media Properties – Blog Huddle
If you’re into college football or international soccer, SB Nation’s newest additions will appeal to you.