The Predators are back home tonight to square off against the Anaheim Ducks. The last meeting between the Ducks and the Preds ended up with a head coach firing, so let’s hope tonight is a little less…dramatic.
Nashville Predators
On a team led by defender Roman Josi in points, one can’t help but wonder if any gold-clad players will be trade bait in the next few months. Josi has been overachieving on a team that, until recently, had seen its stars fade out a bit.
After a loss to the Oilers earlier in the week, the Preds are looking to get back to their winning ways under new coach John Hynes. What we’d really like to see is players like Mikael Granlund and Viktor Arvidsson begin to heat up.
While Pekka Rinne didn’t play a poor game in Edmonton, the Oilers’ power play really killed Rinne’s chance to build momentum heading into the second half of the season. Rinne (and Saros) had both appeared to benefit from Coach Hynes’ revitalized structure in the defensive zone.
I’d like to highlight the fourth line. Kyle Turris leads Colin Blackwell and Yakov Trenin, and this line remains a threat every single game. Blackwell and Trenin are sure making a case for a permanent roster spot.
Anaheim Ducks
Backstopped by John Gibson in goal, the Ducks routinely hang their goaltender out to dry. Gibson should be a Vezina favorite every year, but his team’s lackluster play probably removes him from the race every time. Gibson has a .905 Sv% and backup Ryan Miller has a .899 Sv%.
Captain Ryan Getzlaf leads the team in points with 30 (11 goals, 19 assists). Jakob Silfverberg has 28 points (15 goals, 13 assists), and Rickard Rakell has 26 points (11 goals, 15 assists). Cam Fowler leads Anaheim defenders in points with 23 (9 goals, 14 assists).
Since their shootout victory against Nashville two weeks ago, the Ducks have not won a game.
Memories and Feelings
– There’s no love lost here. Expect tons of booing for the not-so-mighty Ducks.
– Who will be the villain tonight? Corey Perry is no longer a Duck, but I’m sure there’s an equally evil Duck somewhere in the lineup who will cause a ruckus. Hint: It’s also not Ryan Kesler.
Reasons to Watch
– You just CANNOT miss an Anaheim contest.
– I’m keeping my eye on the fourth line tonight. As I mention above, 42-8-32 has been a consistent speed/checking line that has put up big points lately.
Tonight’s Theme Song
How to Watch
Tonight’s game is at 7:00 Central. 102.5 The Game has the radio call and FS-TN has your broadcast.