Nashville Predators
The Predators responded on Sunday with a big win over the Minnesota Wild. Connor Ingram got his first NHL start and win. Ryan Johansen, Roman Josi, and Tanner Jeannot played one hell of a game.
I’d certainly expect Juuse Saros back in net tonight. I’m hoping that Mark Boroweicki can get back in the lineup, too. Ben Harpur should remain in the press box (in my opinion). Boroweicki, Matt Benning, and Phil Myers are all excellent third-pair options. I’ve enjoyed watching Myers be physical on the boards, but sometimes he makes curious choices with the puck when exiting Nashville’s zone.
San Jose Sharks
Our old friend Nick Bonino returns to Nashville as a Shark. Bonino was one of my favorite Preds, and his veteran presence has inspired the Sharks as the navigate a rebuild, the Evander Kane drama, and a couple of uninspiring seasons.
The Sharks just acquired a draft pick from Ottawa after trading Ryan Gambrell to the Senators. Gambrell played 110 games with San Jose, but never seemed to fit.
Prior to the beginning of the season, there was a bit of chatter around Tomas Hertl and his contract extension with San Jose. Hertl has 3 points (2 goals, 1 assist) on the season. Hertl is a big body in front of the net, and he typically scores his best goals from right in front of the goalie. Here’s his last goal from this weekend’s game against Boston.
Logan Couture leads his team with 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists). Even without his flowing locks, Erik Karlsson leads the way on the blue line with 6 points (2 goals, 4 assists).
We’re fairly used to seeing Aaron Dell or Martin Jones in net for San Jose, but instead, we have newcomers Adin Hill and James Reimer. Reimer has started two games and has a .980 Sv%; Hill has started 4 games and has a .890 Sv%.
This season, the Sharks are kinda…fun. They have an injection of youth, veteran presence, and some underrated stars. Swapping around their goaltending has certainly boosted their presence in the Pacific Division, too.
Keep Your Eye on This Guy
Filip Forsberg: I was hoping that his demotion to the second line might inspire a “go off” game, but it seemed like Johansen and Duchene elevated their game as a response. Forsberg isn’t points-less (he has 2 goals and 3 assists), but it’s about time for him to go off and score a hat trick.
Nick Bonino: Bonino has not yet scored for the Sharks. Will he put one in the net tonight? At the very least, look for a Bonino tribute video for one of my favorite former Preds.
Reasons to Watch
-More Tanner Jeannot goals?
-More Connor Ingram quotables?
-Roman Josi is on a tear. More points for the captain.
-Ryan Johansen is on a tear. More points for Joey.
Tonight’s Theme Song
(I’m NOT sorry.)
How to Watch
Tonight’s game is on ESPN+ (Hulu). You probably won’t be able to find it on NHLN or Bally Sports. 102.5 The Game has the radio call. Puck drop is at 7:00 PM.