For the first time in 15 years, the Nashville Predators took to the ice without David Legwand as part of the team. They were going to need all hands remaining hands on deck, as they welcomed in the St. Louis Blues (and their shiny new goaltender) into Bridgestone Arena. It’s a team they haven’t had success against this season, and the way this season has gone, any win against any team poised to make a deep run is as good as it’s going to get.
Just like the game against Pittsburgh, the Preds stayed pretty much completely even with the Blues as far as shots and chances go. It seems like the team has had a little more jump in their step since Rinne came back. But the Blues are immensely talented both offensively and defensively. After breaking the tie in the second period, they were able to keep the offensively challenged Predators from tallying again, thanks to some great work by Ryan Miller. St. Louis left the ice as victors.
Random Observations
- Pekka Rinne looked spectacular again tonight. It’s really reassuring to see him come back so strong after being out for so long. What I would like to see (even though it may be a pipe dream) is to see Rinne and Carter Hutton split the rest of the games this season. There isn’t any reason to push Rinne hard, given the team’s current place in the standings, and Hutton could use the extra playing time. This would be especially important if they aren’t sure if they want to start the Mazanec or Hellberg era yet.
- My dad, whose Preds knowledge extends as far as knowing they are a hockey team, saw their first power play attempt and asked, “Why are they dumping it deep when they’re up a man.” Your Nashville Predators, ladies and gentleman!
- My brother decided that he was going to turn 30 today, and he was free tonight for the family to get together for drinks. The nerve. Unfortunately, that means I missed almost the entire 3rd period. I trust you all to carry the discussion, shame my poor planning, and wish the eldest Garcia a happy birthday.
Boxscore – Game Summary – Event Summary – Fancy Stats
Roll the video highlights…