x

Already member? Login first!

Comments / New

Nashville Predators vs. Dallas Stars Game 1 Preview: Rise Up

Folks, it’s finally playoff time. The Dallas Stars are in town as the first wildcard team in the western conference.

Dallas Stars

If you missed any of OTF’s previews, check out our breakdowns of Dallas’s forwards, defensemen, goaltenders, special teams, and our final thoughts.

Like the Predators, the Stars haven’t changed much from their final few games for this playoff series. They’re looking for Mats Zuccarello to get back in the lineup after missing a bunch of games with a broken arm, and powerplay stalwart Jason Spezza looks like he may be the scratch.

On defense, Miro Heiskanen and John Klingberg remain threats for Nashville. They’re puck-moving defenders who will most certainly be pushing the play for Dallas.

While Anton Khudobin had an excellent regular season against Nashville, Ben Bishop is the presumed starter for Dallas tonight in Bridgestone Arena.

Nashville Predators

Like Dallas, Nashville is using a familiar lineup. It seems that Peter Laviolette wishes to keep Nick Bonino, Colton Sissons, and Austin Watson together. The fourth line features two big guys and a playmaker: Brian Boyle, Wayne Simmonds, and Calle Järnkrok.

After scoring his first NHL goal on Saturday against Chicago, it seems like Dante Fabbro has earned the trust of the coaching staff and will remain on the third defense pair with Dan Hamhuis. His confidence will only increase as the Predators work toward the ultimate goal: a Cup.

The big Finn will be in net. There’s no question about that.

Memories and Feelings

  • There’s no better way to amp up the 2020 Winter Classic than with a hard-fought series between Nashville and Dallas.
  • Apparently PETA (yes, that PETA) will be at the game handing out stress balls and trying to discourage Nashville fans from throwing catfish on the ice.
  • Let’s bring that playoff noise tonight.
  • I’m ready to hear “Run This Town.” /

Tonight’s Theme Song

“Run This Town” by Rihanna and Jay-Z.

Tonight’s Drink of Choice

I don’t know what the most “Nashville” drink is…perhaps a beer chugged on a rowdy pedal tavern on Broadway? Here’s another suggestion.

I’m having a Yazoo Hefeweizen. It’s one of the BEST Hefeweizens available, and it’s brewed and bottled here in the Music City.

How to Watch

Puck drop is a bit later because there’s a bunch of playoff games tonight. Puck drop will be a bit after 8:30 Central.

You have several TV options for tonight’s game. FS-TN is my choice, but you can also catch the game on USA. 102.5 The Game will have the radio call.