The Predators are preparing for a late-night Game 3 against the Avalanche. This will be a tough contest in Colorado’s home arena, so expect plenty of energy and a little feistiness.
Saturday afternoon’s Game 2 was filled with chippiness, the Nashville 7th man, and some catfish. To recap: five different Predators scored, Nathan MacKinnon is great at hockey, and Gabriel Bourque surprised everyone with the opening goal.
The Nashville Predators
The Predators will have to adjust to Colorado’s home barn and what’s sure to be an unfriendly crowd. Every move will be heavily scrutinized by Colorado media, so expect lots of fiery conversation on social media.
The Predators absolutely have to keep up their balanced scoring act tonight. They’ve seen scoring from 8 different players, but there’s always room for other players to add a goal or two.
The fourth line might see some shuffling tonight. Miikka Salomaki hasn’t looked terrible, but it pains me to say that Mike Fisher is struggling a bit in the matchups he’s faced in Games 1 and 2. Ryan Hartman’s grind paid off on Saturday afternoon, but I’m hoping better combinations can be established.
The Predators also have to play better in front of Pekka Rinne. They need to chase down loose pucks and clear rebounds for rushes. Too often on Saturday did they just look at a puck as an Avalanche player scooped it up for a pass or a shot.
The Colorado Avalanche
It’s obvious Colorado will be desperate tonight.
The Ads were without Samuel Girard on Saturday, another big loss for their defensive corps. There’s no word on whether he’ll skate tonight, but be sure to check out the practice line rushes as they’re posted later this afternoon.
The Avalanche have their fans on their side tonight. They’ve gotten off to good starts in Games 1 and 2, but Nashville has found a way to come back. Nashville must obtain and maintain a lead in front of this dangerous team.
The Avalanche can strike if they force the Predators to take poor penalties. The Predators need to stay out of the box because Colorado’s power play is much more lethal at home than on the road.
Possible Changes
-The Predators have done an excellent job containing the Avalanche’s big guns…will they be able to do so tonight? While the Avalanche have a potent top line, the Predators are getting scoring from all lines.
-The Nashville fourth line needs a little help.
-Yannick Weber warmed up before Game 2…will he skate tonight?
-Calle Jarnkrok, please come back to us.
Reasons to Watch
-Can the Predators take Game 3 at Pepsi Center?
-Take a nap and then watch some late night hockey!!
Tonight’s Theme Song
“Tick Tick Boom” by The Hives. The Avalanche are likely to get a little frustrated with the game tonight in front of their fans…prepare for a ton of after-whistle activity.
Tonight’s Beverage of Choice
A late night puck drop means that I’m not drinking anything that’s going to put me to sleep. Tonight, I’ll have Dunkin Donuts coffee with a little bit of Jameson.
How to Watch
Tonight’s game will be broadcast on NBC Sports and and Fox Sports-TN. 102.5 The Game has the radio call, and puck drop is at 9 pm.