Nashville Predators
While reading the Preds’ official game preview, I found out that “The Predators are 4-1-0 in their last five games against the Ducks.” That’s an excellent record against a team that Nashville used to absolutely despise and loathe.
Cody Glass was a healthy scratch against Dallas, and he’s not looked like himself this season. It seems to be one thing after another for Glass. I wouldn’t expect the lines to change too much, and further, I’ve been pleasantly surprised with Roman Josi and Dante Fabbro over the last few games. Fabbro remains much maligned, but he’s been quite stable over the last 3-5 games.
Gus Nyquist has been on a rampage for Nashville – he’s on an 8 game point streak, boasting 6 goals and 6 assists over that period. I’d expect Nyquist to be very visible tonight alongside Ryan O’Reilly. Another player to watch for the Predators is Luke Evangelista…also known as Pretty Boy Vincenzo. Per the nashvillepredators.com, “Luke Evangelista netted his seventh goal of the season and the third in his last four games. The 21-year-old is tied for sixth among NHL rookies in points with 19 (7g-12a).”
Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim made a big trade on Monday evening by acquiring Cutter Gautier from Philadelphia in return for Jamie Drysdale. Gautier is still playing college hockey, but that’s a big acquisition.
Anaheim lost a game late against Detroit in their last outing, so they’ll be looking to get back in the win column tonight. They’ve lost 5 in a row, so this could easily be a trap game for the Predators. Anaheim, since 2017, has been on a confusing trajectory. They have traded away veterans, acquired tons of youngsters in the draft, and have a world-class goalie continuing to underachieve in John Gibson.
Frank Vatrano leads Anaheim in points with 38 (18 goals, 10 assists). Mason McTavish, likely a future captain, has 11 goals. Troy Terry has 9 goals and 14 assists. D-man Cam Fowler leads the Anaheim blue line with 18 points (2 goals, 16 assists).
Backup goalie Lukas Dostal ended up in Toronto’s news a few days ago after posting an incredible game against the Maple Leafs. He’s got a lot of talent and might be a worthy starter for Anaheim (or another team) in a season or two. Playing behind Anaheim’s blue line can’t be easy. Gibson has taken about 65% of Anaheim’s starts.
Reasons to Watch
Trevor Zegras is on a heater for Anaheim. The young dynamo is a future leader in Anaheim, and he’ll be part of their power core when they finally emerge from the rebuild.
Juuse Saros has had a weird few weeks since Christmas. Kevin Lankinen picked up a win against Dallas, but Saros needs to get himself back into form if the Predators are going to continue to challenge for a wildcard (or playoff) spot.
Keep Your Eye on This Guy
Centerman Mason McTavish is likely to be leading the Ducks on (and off) the ice. He’s a dynamic sparkplug for the Ducks, and I’d expect to see him contributing in points as well as with physical play tonight.
Tonight’s Theme Song
How to Watch
Tonight’s game is at 7:00 CST. Bally Sports South has the broadcast and 102.5 The Game has the radio call.