Nashville Predators @ Calgary Flames: Game Coverage

There's no time to fret over last night's 7-4 loss at Vancouver, as the Predators get right back to work tonight at Calgary (8:00 p.m. Central on FS-TN).

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Calgary Flames
Record	11-10-6	19th	10-11-4	25th
GF/Game	2.22	29th	2.76	14th
GA/Game	2.33	4th	3.24	28th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	28.6	13th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	6th	28.5	16th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	51.67	12th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.886	29th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	6.9	9th
# of PP's/Gm	3.22	26th	3.60	19th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	28th	7.4	23rd
# of PK's/Gm	3.33	7th	3.12	3rd

These two teams aren't exactly the cream of the NHL's crop, but if the game stays mostly at 5-on-5 Nashville's goaltending could make the difference. Both teams take relatively few penalties and don't draw many from their opponents, so there's hope on that front.

The Preds return home to face Calgary in a rematch on Thursday - take the OTF Discount and save money on tickets!

Calgary Flames

When it comes to making the playoffs, it looks Feaster Famine once again in Calgary. SportsClubStats gives the Flames just a 14.2 percent chance of qualifying for the post-season right now, and they've recently scraped the bottom of the Western Conference standings (now held by Colorado). Dark times, indeed:

The Flames' loss to the Kings on Saturday night combined with the Blue Jacket's sudden resurgence and the Oilers' unlikely win over the Chicago Blackhawks today have put the Flames in last place in the Western Conference. The Flames and Oilers have an identical -16 goal differential, although Edmonton has played two more games than Calgary has. Tomorrow's game against the Kings marks the halfway point of the season for the Flames, and with the team being six points out of a playoff spot and the trade deadline quickly approaching, time is running out for Hartley and Co. to right the ship.

But the question of whether or not it would be best just to let the said ship sink remains unanswered by anyone in the organization.

--- Matchsticks & Gasoline

As that ship sinks, should the captain make a getaway? All eyes are on Jarome Iginla, to see if Calgary decides to cash in their chips and send him somewhere to compete for a Stanley Cup in exchange for picks & prospects, since it doesn't look like the Flames are going to be a contender any time soon:

---

Jarome Iginla

#12 / Right Wing / Calgary Flames

Height: 6-1

Weight: 207

Born: Jul 01, 1977

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Jarome Iginla	25	7	12	19	-4	15	1	0	1		84	8.3

Nashville Predators

What sort of team will we see tonight? The one that shut out Dallas on Tuesday, or the one which gave up seven goals to Vancouver last night?

What we do know is that Pekka Rinne will be back in goal, and he'll look to bounce back with a dominating performance.

Up front, the hot hand of late might actually belong to a guy who's caught a lot of flak this season:

---

David Legwand

#11 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-2

Weight: 204

Born: Aug 17, 1980

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - David Legwand	27	5	7	12	0	10	2	0	0		38	13.2

---

Leggy has been flat-out awful this season, but he is riding a four-game point scoring streak into tonight's contest. Yes, it includes that fluke half-ice goal against Edmonton last Friday, but on an offenisvely-challenged team like the Predators, beggars can't be choosers.

So what do you think? Can Legwand ride to the rescue tonight? The puck drops at 8:00 p.m. Central, so make sure to come back for the Game Thread...

Nashville Predators @ Calgary Flames Preview: Out of the Frying Pan...

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Calgary Flames
Record	11-10-6	19th	10-11-4	25th
GF/Game	2.22	29th	2.76	14th
GA/Game	2.33	4th	3.24	28th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	28.6	13th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	6th	28.5	16th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	51.67	12th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.886	29th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	6.9	9th
# of PP's/Gm	3.22	26th	3.60	19th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	28th	7.4	23rd
# of PK's/Gm	3.33	7th	3.12	3rd

These two teams aren't exactly the cream of the NHL's crop, but if the game stays mostly at 5-on-5 Nashville's goaltending could make the difference. Both teams take relatively few penalties and don't draw many from their opponents, so there's hope on that front.

The Preds return home to face Calgary in a rematch on Thursday - take the OTF Discount and save money on tickets!

Calgary Flames

When it comes to making the playoffs, it looks Feaster Famine once again in Calgary. SportsClubStats gives the Flames just a 14.2 percent chance of qualifying for the post-season right now, and they've recently scraped the bottom of the Western Conference standings (now held by Colorado). Dark times, indeed:

The Flames' loss to the Kings on Saturday night combined with the Blue Jacket's sudden resurgence and the Oilers' unlikely win over the Chicago Blackhawks today have put the Flames in last place in the Western Conference. The Flames and Oilers have an identical -16 goal differential, although Edmonton has played two more games than Calgary has. Tomorrow's game against the Kings marks the halfway point of the season for the Flames, and with the team being six points out of a playoff spot and the trade deadline quickly approaching, time is running out for Hartley and Co. to right the ship.

But the question of whether or not it would be best just to let the said ship sink remains unanswered by anyone in the organization.

--- Matchsticks & Gasoline

As that ship sinks, should the captain make a getaway? All eyes are on Jarome Iginla, to see if Calgary decides to cash in their chips and send him somewhere to compete for a Stanley Cup in exchange for picks & prospects, since it doesn't look like the Flames are going to be a contender any time soon:

---

Jarome Iginla

#12 / Right Wing / Calgary Flames

Height: 6-1

Weight: 207

Born: Jul 01, 1977

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Jarome Iginla	25	7	12	19	-4	15	1	0	1		84	8.3

Nashville Predators

What sort of team will we see tonight? The one that shut out Dallas on Tuesday, or the one which gave up seven goals to Vancouver last night?

What we do know is that Pekka Rinne will be back in goal, and he'll look to bounce back with a dominating performance.

Up front, the hot hand of late might actually belong to a guy who's caught a lot of flak this season:

---

David Legwand

#11 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-2

Weight: 204

Born: Aug 17, 1980

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - David Legwand	27	5	7	12	0	10	2	0	0		38	13.2

---

Leggy has been flat-out awful this season, but he is riding a four-game point scoring streak into tonight's contest. Yes, it includes that fluke half-ice goal against Edmonton last Friday, but on an offenisvely-challenged team like the Predators, beggars can't be choosers.

So what do you think? Can Legwand ride to the rescue tonight? The puck drops at 8:00 p.m. Central, so make sure to come back for the Game Thread...

Calgary Flames 6, Nashville Predators 3: Pekka Rinne Pulled Again

It's been a bad couple days for the Nashville Predators, giving up a total of 13 goals and watching Pekka Rinne get pulled from consecutive starts. Needing points to keep pace in the Western Conference standings, the Preds instead dropped a stinker tonight in Calgary, losing 6-3.

Curtis Glencross completed a hat trick with an empty net goal in the final minute, finishing off a fun night for the home crowd. Five Flames had multi-point nights, and Miikka Kiprusoff had a pretty easy night to push his record to 5-5-2. For Calgary, it was their sixth straight home victory.

For Nashville, they move on to Edmonton Sunday night, hoping to find a formula that yields a win.

Random Observations

• Sergei Kostitsyn scratched? Bestill my beating heart... it's about time somebody relatively high-up on the depth chart was made to sit, but he wouldn't be my first choice.
• I couldn't blame Pekka Rinne if he's frustrated these days, but you have to think he'll be chomping at the bit to get back in there Sunday at Edmonton.
• So who else was pumped to see David Legwand keep his point streak alive with that late goal? Just me, eh? OK.
• I know many will question the constant jumbling of the forward lines tonight, but at some point there's a certain amount of sense in it. When playing with new linemates, players concentrate on doing the basics and communicating, which is probably where the Predators need to start when trying to piece things back together right now.
• I can't remember seeing Barry Trotz quite so exasperated as he seemed during his intermission interview tonight. Will change come about over the weekend?

Boxscore - Game Summary - Event Summary

Roll the video highlights...

And your advanced stats...

Nashville Predators

Player	Pos	ES TOI	Total Shots For	Total Shots Against	Corsi	Net Zone Starts	Adjusted Corsi
Mike Fisher	C	17:49	11	15	-4	+2	-5
Martin Erat	R	17:04	10	15	-5	+2	-6
Craig Smith	C	15:36	13	18	-5	+2	-6
Nick Spaling	C	14:51	12	11	+1	+2	+0
Gabriel Bourque	L	14:34	9	12	-3	0	-3
David Legwand	C	13:58	11	7	+4	+1	+4
Bobby Butler	R	13:42	9	6	+3	+1	+3
Zach Boychuk	L	13:34	13	10	+3	+3	+2
Matt Halischuk	R	13:23	12	18	-6	+2	-7
Brandon Yip	R	8:46	10	11	-1	+1	-1
Rich Clune	L	7:26	6	9	-3	0	-3
Chris Mueller	C	7:08	8	7	+1	-1	+1
Shea Weber	D	19:35	13	22	-9	+4	-11
Kevin Klein	D	19:10	16	15	+1	+1	+1
Victor Bartley	D	18:58	18	15	+3	0	+3
Roman Josi	D	18:31	13	17	-4	+4	-6
Ryan Ellis	D	16:05	13	12	+1	0	+1
Scott Hannan	D	12:23	9	11	-2	+1	-2

Calgary Flames

Player	Pos	ES TOI	Total Shots For	Total Shots Against	Corsi	Net Zone Starts	Adjusted Corsi
Jarome Iginla	R	16:04	17	9	+8	-1	+8
Alex Tanguay	L	15:57	16	11	+5	-1	+5
Matt Stajan	C	15:56	16	18	-2	-3	-1
Mike Cammalleri	L	15:21	14	8	+6	-1	+6
Lee Stempniak	R	14:40	14	16	-2	-2	-1
Curtis Glencross	L	14:23	12	15	-3	-2	-2
Mikael Backlund	C	13:37	10	8	+2	-1	+2
Jiri Hudler	C	13:31	9	9	0	-1	+0
Blake Comeau	L	13:23	9	10	-1	-1	-1
Tim Jackman	R	8:33	7	6	+1	-1	+1
Brian Mcgrattan	R	7:57	8	6	+2	-1	+2
Steve Begin	L	7:23	6	7	-1	0	-1
Jay Bouwmeester	D	24:29	18	20	-2	-6	+0
TJ Brodie	D	21:37	14	17	-3	-4	-1
Dennis Wideman	D	17:50	18	15	+3	-1	+3
Mark Giordano	D	16:48	18	13	+5	+1	+5
Chris Butler	D	12:09	13	8	+5	0	+5
Derek Smith	D	11:47	11	9	+2	0	+2

Can the Nashville Predators Live Up to Raised Expectations?

On the latest episode of the 303:30, a bloggers roundtable considered the question of whether David Poile and Barry Trotz need to worry about their jobs, given the disappointing results we've seen this season. Rather than following up last season's success with a run for the Central Division title, the Predators are fighting for a chance to even make the playoffs, something more like what we experienced in 2008 or 2009.

After advancing to the second round of the playoffs each of the least two seasons, anything less than that will be seen as a setback, but are things so desperate that heads need to roll down Broadway any time soon?

What Have You Done For Me Lately?

Sometimes, the mood among fans can change awfully quickly. Ryan Porth of Smashville 24/7 chimed in during the roundtable with "this cycle of mediocrity has to come to an end at some point. Poile has to get this team to the top or someone else is going to have to do it. Trotz is going to have to get this team to the top or someone else is going to have to do it" (as quoted by Jeremy at Section303.com).

Yet only last month, he was touting the Predators as The "It" Team In The "It" City:

Every spring the team inches closer to a Stanley Cup, while Smashville has become "the place to be" in this city 41 nights a year. There also is a substantial "it" factor that has people coming back, just like the city itself. When they experience a Predators game for the first time, they get lost in the atmosphere and the music and the game and the entertainment - and suddenly, there's no looking back. They're hooked.

"My wife and I found something to be invested in with the team - not only financially, but emotionally and socially. We've made lifelong friends because of our love of the team," Delph said.

The city caught Preds Fever during the 2011 playoffs - the franchise's breakthrough moment - and it hasn't let go.

That's quite an about-face, in just a matter of a few weeks. Have things really turned so quickly for the worse? Or has the recent stretch of poor play suddenly cast a different light on the last several years?

The difficult thing to accept is that when it comes to hockey teams, even ones with a number of young players working their way up the learning curve (Colin Wilson, Craig Smith, Gabriel Bourque, Roman Josi, etc.), progress is rarely a straight-line process. There are setbacks and reversals of fortune, but that doesn't necessarily mean you react to those by changing the leadership.

Why David Poile Should, Or Shouldn't, Go

If the owners really wanted to fire David Poile, they could certainly find reasons - the long-running inability to attract or develop top offensive talent, the handling of Ryan Suter (who walked away for nothing) and/or Shea Weber (whose last two contracts were determined by an NHL arbitrator and the Philadelphia Flyers instead of the Preds), and the obvious absence of any banners hanging from the rafters at Bridgestone Arena.

Although Barry Trotz recently opined that "offense can win you games, but defense can win you championships", this team which is so famously dedicated to defense hasn't ever won a championship, whether for the Central Division, Western Conference, or of course the Stanley Cup.

There are many positives to Poile's tenure that don't stand out so starkly, but are invaluable to the stability of the franchise, however - a drafting & development system that continues to crank out elite homegrown talent on defense and in goal, and a deep-rooted organizational culture that is committed to "the Predator Way". Whether you're down with that philosophy or not, the fact that it is consistently applied from Nashville through Milwaukee is an organizational strength that pays off when injury strikes and guys have to be called up.

Simply put, even if David Poile were given his walking papers, a true cultural change wouldn't come about without a much more thorough turnover.

Is that what's needed?

Can David Poile & Co. Get the Job Done?

Anyone who has read OTF over the years knows that I'm critical of the Predators' leadership on occasion. For a long time they reserved a roster spot for a designated fighter who can't take a regular shift, and often eschew offensive specialists in favor of hard-working pluggers whose best work is done along the boards, rather than near the net. With the Paul Gaustad contract, the team is now paying thrice as much as what they used to for guys who delivered similar results, like Jerred Smithson and Scott Nichol.

That said, I do believe that this group is capable of hanging banners at Bridgestone Arena. They had a decent chance of doing that last season, boasting the richest collection of offensive talent seen here since 2007 during the playoffs, before they shot themselves in the foot with the whole Radulov/Kostitsyn affair. In the short term, they have some real difficulties to work through given the high cost of the Weber & Rinne contracts (for years, the Preds thrived on cheap but top-notch goaltending & D, but it's not cheap any more).

If you judge a leadership group by saying anything less than winning the Stanley Cup is a failure, you're likely to be sorely disappointed for decades at a time. With 30 teams in the league, even an average team is doing well to win once in a generation. In 3 of the last 7 seasons, however (2007, 2010, 2012) the Preds had a good shot at a Central Division, Western Conference, or Stanley Cup championship. Many other teams around the league (some with the greatest resources available to them, too) haven't come close to that kind of opportunity.

Make no mistake, however, the pressure to succeed going forward will be higher than it has been in the past. When it comes to growing the business of the Nashville Predators, the first step (as frequently mentioned by CEO Jeff Cogen) is to fill the building. The team is now doing that with regularity, boasting of a 25-game sellout streak.

The next step, once an expectation of ticket scarcity starts to set in among Nashville sports fans, is to raise prices. That will be a tough sell if the team doesn't have any genuine accomplishments to show off, although the team is doing such a great job marketing these days that a good portion of the crowd is there simply for the event experience rather than living & dying with the on-ice results. My guess is that the portion of the fan base that would stop buying tickets if the team doesn't make the playoffs is very, very small.

Can David Poile & Barry Trotz raise banners at Bridgestone Arena in the years ahead? That's the question of the day, and I'd like to get your thoughts on that in the comments below. In the meantime, make sure you head over and listen to the latest 303:30, it's sure to get you thinking...

Nashville Predators @ Vancouver Canucks: Game Coverage

The Nashville Predators make their lone visit of the season to Vancouver tonight, looking to follow up on Tuesday's big win at Dallas.

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Vancouver Canucks
Record	11-9-6	19th	12-7-6	10th
GF/Game	2.15	30th	2.60	18th
GA/Game	2.15	3rd	2.52	11th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	28.2	17th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	5th	26.8	6th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	53.57	6th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.919	14th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	4.9	21st
# of PP's/Gm	3.19	26th	3.80	10th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	27th	7.4	22nd
# of PK's/Gm	3.38	6th	3.72	17th

The Canucks are a well-rounded team, without any glaring holes, but no single area is exactly tearing up the league, either. That's pretty impressive considering the injury issues Vancouver has had to deal with this season, and speaks to the potential that team has if they can get healthy or perhaps add a piece for a playoff run.

In their only previous meeting this season, the Canucks beat the Preds 1-0 in Nashville back on February 22nd.

After this road trip is over, the Preds play 12 of their final 18 games at home. Tickets at Bridgestone Arena are growing scarce, so make sure you take the OTF Discount!

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are used to running away with the Northwest Division each year, but this time they've had difficulty separating themselves from the pack. A decent part of that can be explained by the absence of Ryan Kesler, who has only played seven games this season. He missed the opening weeks while recovering from off-season hip surgery, but then broke his foot after returning to action.

The other big story in Vancouver, of course, is the goaltending drama, which currently shows Roberto Luongo as having reasserted his dominance in net, quieting the talk of trading him (and his hefty contract) so the Canucks can turn over the keys to young Corey Schneider.

---

Roberto Luongo

#1 / Goalie / Vancouver Canucks

Height: 6-3

Weight: 217

Born: Apr 04, 1979

---

---

	GP	MIN	W	L	OTL	GA	GAA	SA	SV	SV%	SO
2012 - Roberto Luongo	12	722	6	2	3	25	2.08	300	275	.917	2

You can tell how tense things are in B.C., given the reaction to a recent win over Columbus which ended a four-game losing streak:

All hail Roberto Luongo for "saving the season." Frustrations were boiling hotter than they had all season, and I'm sure both Luongo and Alain Vigneault are breathing a little easier tonight. After stopping Letestu's final shot, Luongo even had a sort of smile on his face that read, "Don't worry guys, I got this."

--- Nucks Misconduct

Make sure to head over to Nucks Misconduct to check out their preview for line combinations and more.

Nashville Predators

The Preds are going through a rough patch with injuries, having lost a regular forward in each of their last three games. The latest victim was Paul Gaustad, so Nashville has called up Chris Mueller from Milwaukee to fill the gap at center. Where he'll fit in the lineup is a bit of a guess, as Josh Cooper gives us at least a glimpse of what to expect tonight:

Looks like Spaling back to center the fourth line, and Boychuk will take his place on the wing with Smith and Halischuk

— JoshuaCooper (@JoshuaCooper) March 14, 2013

With Spaling and Smith both getting work at center, perhaps Mueller will watch from the press box tonight, but stand ready if needed for the rest of the current road trip.

It looks like Pekka Rinne will get the start, and in this interview with Ryan Porth at Smashville 24/7, he isn't worried about the extensive workload he's handling this season:

Do the fewer number of games make Rinne more capable to get through the season without being affected physically? Are the Predators forced to start him more than they'd like because of their place in the standings? Probably a combination of both.

"It is a different kind of year; you notice the schedule because there's not much time to practice. But I feel good physically," Rinne said. "You just try to save as much energy as you can and bring everything you've got to the game."

---

Pekka Rinne

#35 / Goalie / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-5

Weight: 209

Born: Nov 03, 1982

---

---

	GP	MIN	W	L	OTL	GA	GAA	SA	SV	SV%	SO
2012 - Pekka Rinne	24	1410	10	8	4	47	2.00	618	571	.924	5

---

So plan for a late night of hockey watching, and stay tuned for a special guest star posting tonight's game recap...

Nashville Predators @ Vancouver Canucks Preview: In Pekka We Trust

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Vancouver Canucks
Record	11-9-6	19th	12-7-6	10th
GF/Game	2.15	30th	2.60	18th
GA/Game	2.15	3rd	2.52	11th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	28.2	17th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	5th	26.8	6th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	53.57	6th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.919	14th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	4.9	21st
# of PP's/Gm	3.19	26th	3.80	10th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	27th	7.4	22nd
# of PK's/Gm	3.38	6th	3.72	17th

The Canucks are a well-rounded team, without any glaring holes, but no single area is exactly tearing up the league, either. That's pretty impressive considering the injury issues Vancouver has had to deal with this season, and speaks to the potential that team has if they can get healthy or perhaps add a piece for a playoff run.

In their only previous meeting this season, the Canucks beat the Preds 1-0 in Nashville back on February 22nd.

After this road trip is over, the Preds play 12 of their final 18 games at home. Tickets at Bridgestone Arena are growing scarce, so make sure you take the OTF Discount!

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are used to running away with the Northwest Division each year, but this time they've had difficulty separating themselves from the pack. A decent part of that can be explained by the absence of Ryan Kesler, who has only played seven games this season. He missed the opening weeks while recovering from off-season hip surgery, but then broke his foot after returning to action.

The other big story in Vancouver, of course, is the goaltending drama, which currently shows Roberto Luongo as having reasserted his dominance in net, quieting the talk of trading him (and his hefty contract) so the Canucks can turn over the keys to young Corey Schneider.

---

Roberto Luongo

#1 / Goalie / Vancouver Canucks

Height: 6-3

Weight: 217

Born: Apr 04, 1979

---

---

	GP	MIN	W	L	OTL	GA	GAA	SA	SV	SV%	SO
2012 - Roberto Luongo	12	722	6	2	3	25	2.08	300	275	.917	2

You can tell how tense things are in B.C., given the reaction to a recent win over Columbus which ended a four-game losing streak:

All hail Roberto Luongo for "saving the season." Frustrations were boiling hotter than they had all season, and I'm sure both Luongo and Alain Vigneault are breathing a little easier tonight. After stopping Letestu's final shot, Luongo even had a sort of smile on his face that read, "Don't worry guys, I got this."

--- Nucks Misconduct

Make sure to head over to Nucks Misconduct to check out their preview for line combinations and more.

Nashville Predators

The Preds are going through a rough patch with injuries, having lost a regular forward in each of their last three games. The latest victim was Paul Gaustad, so Nashville has called up Chris Mueller from Milwaukee to fill the gap at center. Where he'll fit in the lineup is a bit of a guess, as Josh Cooper gives us at least a glimpse of what to expect tonight:

Looks like Spaling back to center the fourth line, and Boychuk will take his place on the wing with Smith and Halischuk

— JoshuaCooper (@JoshuaCooper) March 14, 2013

With Spaling and Smith both getting work at center, perhaps Mueller will watch from the press box tonight, but stand ready if needed for the rest of the current road trip.

It looks like Pekka Rinne will get the start, and in this interview with Ryan Porth at Smashville 24/7, he isn't worried about the extensive workload he's handling this season:

Do the fewer number of games make Rinne more capable to get through the season without being affected physically? Are the Predators forced to start him more than they'd like because of their place in the standings? Probably a combination of both.

"It is a different kind of year; you notice the schedule because there's not much time to practice. But I feel good physically," Rinne said. "You just try to save as much energy as you can and bring everything you've got to the game."

---

Pekka Rinne

#35 / Goalie / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-5

Weight: 209

Born: Nov 03, 1982

---

---

	GP	MIN	W	L	OTL	GA	GAA	SA	SV	SV%	SO
2012 - Pekka Rinne	24	1410	10	8	4	47	2.00	618	571	.924	5

---

So plan for a late night of hockey watching, and stay tuned for a special guest star posting tonight's game recap...

NHL Realignment Approved by Board of Governors: Who Will Be Nashville's Biggest Rival?

The NHL has finally signed off on realignment beginning with the 2013-14 season, laying out a four-division format that has a "Back to the 80's" feel to its playoff format (which I love, Love, LOVE).

The following video explains many of the details, but the question I have for you is which team will become the Nashville Predators' biggest rival under the new format? With Detroit & Columbus jettisoned over to the East, will it be Chicago? There's certainly the history from the 2010 playoffs.

St. Louis? There's the background between Barry Trotz & Ken Hitchcock. How about Dallas (which has had some spirited games against the Preds of late) or Minnesota (hello, Mr. Leipold & Mr. Suter)? Vote in the poll below and sound off in the comments...

Poll

Which team will become Nashville's biggest division rival?

• Chicago
• Colorado
• Dallas
• Minnesota
• St. Louis
• Winnipeg

  256 votes | Results

Friday Dump & Chase: The Roller Coaster Ride Continues

Nashville Predators News

Offense Wins Games, Defense Wins Championships, The Predators Win Neither - Nashville Sports Hub
Sam goes medieval on the whole "defense wins championships" line.

Shaken AND Stirred | a Miniseries (Part 2) | Predators AJenda
AJ, like many of us, is having a hard time getting a handle on this team. They zig-zag from dominating to awful in the blink of an eye.

Nashville Predators irritated by two calls by referee | The Tennessean
Expect Pekka Rinne to get back in there tonight at Calgary.

Zach Boychuk hopes to play his first ‘home’ game in Calgary - Nashville Predators Examiner
Will he get the chance? With Chris Mueller joining the team, someone has to sit.

Also, here's Pete Weber's radio update this morning:

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Gary Bettman: New NHL divisions will have ‘sensible geographic designations’ for names | Puck Daddy
Well, that's about the least exciting thing ever.

Anschutz decides not to sell AEG " LA Kings Insider
One of the biggest names in the sports business decides to stay put.

Rumblings: Interest in Jarome Iginla - Cross Checks Blog - ESPN
Is this the year the Flames finally trade Iggy?

Kris Versteeg out for year with knee injury, as another trade chip breaks for Panthers | Puck Daddy
Last season the Panthers were perhaps the luckiest team in the NHL, riding a host of overtime losses to the Southeast Division title. My, how the worm has turned.

Alex Sulzer Out For Season After ACL Surgery - Die By The Blade
A tough break for the former Predator.

Willes: Removing Vigneault will do one thing — show the real problem - The Province
The Canucks haven't blown the rest of the Northwest Division away yet, so naturally it's time to start firing people.

Firing Peter Laviolette is not the answer - Broad Street Hockey
They're not exactly feeling the Brotherly Love in Philadelphia, either.

Canucks' Offense Erupts for Seven Goals Against Predators - Nucks Misconduct
For a night, at least, it was all smiles in Vancouver.

Nicole Kirnan, first woman to coach men’s pro hockey team, faced ‘demoralizing’ criticism | Puck Daddy
Now here's a story you don't read every day...

Seattle hockey arena has green seats for fans, no seats for players - SBNation.com
Wowza...

And just in case you wondered if that whole Roberto Luongo/Corey Schneider battle for the #1 job in Vancouver was getting personal...

Lastly, here's Alexander Radulov coming close to playing the puck with his stick... from the bench during the KHL playoffs (as found at Puck Daddy):

Nashville Predators Recall Chris Mueller from Milwaukee

Following the injury to Paul Gaustad last night in Dallas, the Nashville Predators have recalled center Chris Mueller from the Milwaukee Admirals. Tomorrow night the Predators play at Vancouver, and bringing Mueller up restores some of the depth at center that would otherwise be lacking. For example, Craig Smith is winning just 37% of his faceoffs this season.

This arrived from the Preds:

Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has recalled forward Chris Mueller from Milwaukee (AHL).

Mueller, 27 (3/6/86), leads the Admirals in goals (18), and is second on the club in points (36) in 2012-13. The West Seneca, N.Y., native has appeared in 19 games for the Predators dating back to the 2010-11 season, posting three assists. A season ago, the Michigan State University alum tied for fifth in the American Hockey League in goals (32), becoming the first Milwaukee Admiral since 2006-07 to score 30 goals in a season.

Blake Geoffrion Considering Retirement

ESPN's John Buccigross brings the news today that former Nashville Predators forward Blake Geoffrion will retire from professional hockey, just a few months after suffering a serious head injury (a depressed skull fracture) following this hit in an AHL game during the NHL Lockout:

Geoffrion, of course, holds a special place in Nashville Predators history, being the first homegrown player drafted & developed by the Preds. He not only boasts what is probably the greatest pedigree a professional athlete has ever had, but he had the work ethic to equal his talents, leading him to the 2010 Hobey Baker Award as college hockey's top player, as he took the University of Wisconsin to the national championship game.

Over the course of two seasons with the Predators, Geoffrion played 42 games with six goals and five assists, before being traded to Montreal in exchange for Hal Gill at the 2012 Trade Deadline.

Enjoy your post-playing days, Boomer. And remember, we'll always have Buffalo:

UPDATE: Apparently the news may be a little bit premature, as confusing reports are coming from various circles. Take John Glennon's recent tweets, for example:

According to #Preds, Brentwood's Blake Geoffrion has announced his retirement from hockey. He suffered a skull fracture last year.

— John Glennon (@glennonsports) March 13, 2013

Just spoke to Danny Geoffrion, Blake's dad. He says Blake hasn't retired yet, but simply given notice to Canadiens that he's considering it.

— John Glennon (@glennonsports) March 13, 2013

Danny Geoffrion said Blake's decision will come in next few weeks. He hasn't skated much since suffering skull fracture last year.

— John Glennon (@glennonsports) March 13, 2013

Rich Clune Shares Story of Alcohol Addiction, Recovery

Rich Clune has earned the admiration of many Nashville Predators fans this season for his energetic game and willingness to drop the gloves on behalf of his teammates. An article hitting the internet today seems sure to win over the rest.

ESPN.com's Scott Burnside brings us a lengthy story on Rich Clune, recovering alcoholic, and the moment he hit rock bottom, during the 2010 playoffs when he suited up for the Los Angeles Kings:

The perpetual drinking and the other drugs have sapped him of his strength and conditioning and, worse, his desire to play the game. And in the moment that should have been a cherished memory for life, burnished to a healthy glow to be remembered with pride and shared with children and grandchildren, Clune is instead filled with disgust and self-loathing at what his life had become, what he had become.

"Here was every kid's dream, and I wished I was anywhere else," Clune recalled. "I was so disgusted with myself. I was just so emotionally bankrupt.

It's a remarkable story, which goes a long way towards explaining why Clune hadn't played in the NHL after those 2010 playoffs before getting his chance with Nashville this season. Now, he hopes that story can help others facing similar demons:

It's been almost three years, and Clune feels comfortable enough in his own skin now that he's willing to share his story. Although his is the story of a man who nearly threw away a professional hockey career but got it back, he is hopeful that anyone reading this -- boy, girl, athlete or not, young, old -- will perhaps gain the courage to ask for help, courage it took Clune a long time to find.

Set aside a few minutes and read the rest of Burnside's interview, it sheds a great deal of light on a player who we didn't know anything about just a few weeks ago, but is rapidly climbing the ranks of most-popular Preds.

---

Rich Clune

#16 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-10

Weight: 198

Born: Apr 25, 1987

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Rich Clune	25	3	2	5	+4	48	0	0	1		20	15.0

---

You can't help but wonder, is this part of a pattern with the Predators? After supporting Brian McGrattan and Jordin Tootoo in their recovery, perhaps the team which places such high value on character and work ethic sees something special in a player who is already fighting a genuine life-or-death battle every day away from the rink.

Thursday Dump & Chase: Into the West

Nashville Predators News

Nashville Predators have been cold away from home ice | The Tennessean
Fortunately for the Preds, they finish the season with 12 of the final 18 at home.

SBOTD Presents: Colin Wilson, Forward of the NHL Nashville Predators - BABES DIG BALLS
Meet Colin Wilson, who apparently is a total babe.

Brandon Yip fondly recalls time spent playing under Jack Parker - Nashville Predators Examiner
It must be said that despite his decades of accomplishments as Boston University head coach, Parker is leaving the program in the wake of a scandal (involving the 2009 championship team which included Yip & Wilson) which paints him as a guy who let the inmates run the asylum. So yeah, Yip probably had it pretty good.

At halfway mark, Nashville Predators shoot for sold-out season - Nashville Business Journal
The Preds have a good shot at selling out all 24 home games this season (so make sure to jump on that OTF Discount while there's still time!).

Gaustad back to Nashville - Predators Insider
Goose has been dinged up quite a bit this season.

Paul McCann - Two Games - Two New Rivalries
The Stars and Wild are off to great starts as the new villains on Nashville's radar, writes Paul.

Rich Clune, Barry Trotz, And The Advertising Strategy | Predlines
Jason makes an interesting poker analogy to Rich Clune's season.

Smashville 24/7 - Boychuk, Butler look for stability in ‘tough year’
Amanda puts the spotlight on two guys who hope they can find steady NHL work in Nashville.

Rinne looks to shake off this season's shootout woes | Nashville City Paper
When a few coin flips in a row come up tails, you may lose confidence that heads will ever come again.

Hellberg, Admirals shut out Rivermen 2-0 | HOCKEY GAL MILWAUKEE
Another big night for Magnus Hellberg, who already had a pretty darned good February.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Corey Perry Suspended Four Games For Hit On Minnesota's Jason Zucker - Anaheim Calling
Ducks fans are quacking over this...

Concussions: This is Your Brain on Hockey | Overtime
In light of the Perry hit, have a long think about the concussion issue, and to what extent the fundamental nature of contact sports needs to change in order to deal with them.

NHL Logos Get Minimalist Treatment - Blog - icethetics.info
Very, very cool.

How have this season’s new number one goaltenders performed? | Backhand Shelf
No Skittles for you, Anders.

Zach Sikich’s 14 minutes of fame: How trainer became Anaheim Ducks’ emergency goalie | Puck Daddy
These are always great stories.

The man who solved Alex Ovechkin | Puck Daddy
Is a former Milwaukee Admirals coach the guy who brought down the Great 8 from Hart Trophy-status?

The Quiet Room: Blake Geoffrion | Backhand Shelf
Jo lays out the grim details of depressed skull fractures and what, if anything, can be done about them.

Free Jake Gardiner: Agent uses Twitter to pry client from Maple Leafs’ shackles | Puck Daddy
Ben Hankinson runs a play out of Allan Walsh's book.

Phoenix Coyotes’ new championship wrestling belt is spectacular, quite shiny | Puck Daddy
HOLY COW.

The Los Angeles Kings’ Twitter game is on another level | Backhand Shelf
HOLY COW, Part 2.

Los Angeles Kings: Masters of Puck Possession - Broad Street Hockey
Them Kings, they're pretty darned good.

Vox Media Wins Digiday Publisher of the Year | Digiday
Vox Media is the corporate parent over SB Nation and its sister sites The Verge and Polygon, and it's pretty much conquering the world.

Nashville Predators 4, Dallas Stars 0: Pekka Rinne Records NHL-Leading 5th Shutout

What more can you ask from a hockey game? Despite missing Colin Wilson and Patric Hornqvist, the Predators mustered a strong effort tonight in a 4-0 triumph at Dallas. We had a Pekka Rinne shutout (his 5th, leading the NHL), a penalty shot goal for depth-line banger Rich Clune, a fight for Ryan Ellis, and strong special teams play.

Speaking of Clune's penalty shot, listen in to his intermission interview, in which he touted his perfect shootout record from his last year in junior hockey. Hmm... lobbying for some shootout action from Barry Trotz, perhaps?

The only thing that didn't go Nashville's way was that another forward got knocked out of the lineup, as Paul Gaustad didn't come out for the 3rd period due to an upper body injury. Stay tuned for further details on that front...

Random Observations

• It was nice to see Nick Spaling get a goal, he's had a pretty lousy season so far, and you hope that a score like that can spark some confidence and offensive assertiveness.
• As I wrote this morning, "The real area of opportunity for Nashville is in the Stars’ lack of discipline, which has caused them to work the penalty kill more often than any other team in the league." Both the second and third Preds goals came after guys got behind the Dallas defense that you wouldn't normally expect, Scott Hannan and Rich Clune.
• Peks was on tonight, frustrating the Stars on a number of chances that looked like surefire goals. A bounce or three went his way, for sure, but nobody's complaining over here.
• Perhaps most encouraging was the performance of the penalty kill tonight which successfully held down the fort on four occasions.
• Bourque's goal tied him for the team lead with Colin Wilson, at seven.
• If Gaustad is out for any length of time, faceoffs could become an issue. Craig Smith, for example, only won 2 of 9.
• I can't help but wonder what Vern Fiddler was muttering under his breath while watching Rich Clune score on that penalty shot, after his "you won't be here in two weeks" crack during the Preds & Stars last matchup. I think this new division rivalry will work out just swell, don't you?

Boxscore - Game Summary - Event Summary

Roll the video highlights...

And your advanced stats...

Nashville Predators

Player	Pos	ES TOI	Total Shots For	Total Shots Against	Corsi	Net Zone Starts	Adjusted Corsi
Gabriel Bourque	L	14:53	12	21	-9	-4	-7
Martin Erat	R	14:22	7	12	-5	-2	-4
Craig Smith	C	13:33	5	23	-18	0	-18
David Legwand	C	13:23	11	18	-7	-4	-5
Nick Spaling	C	13:09	7	26	-19	-1	-19
Sergei Kostitsyn	L	12:38	5	10	-5	-2	-4
Bobby Butler	R	11:48	9	14	-5	-3	-4
Mike Fisher	C	11:35	6	7	-1	-2	-0
Matt Halischuk	R	10:36	7	17	-10	+3	-11
Brandon Yip	R	8:12	5	10	-5	-6	-3
Paul Gaustad	C	8:04	6	11	-5	-8	-2
Rich Clune	L	7:00	5	7	-2	-4	-0
Roman Josi	D	18:46	10	25	-15	-5	-13
Victor Bartley	D	15:55	6	23	-17	-5	-15
Shea Weber	D	15:54	7	21	-14	-6	-12
Scott Hannan	D	15:19	13	19	-6	0	-6
Kevin Klein	D	15:01	7	16	-9	-5	-7
Ryan Ellis	D	12:27	13	15	-2	-1	-2

The largely negative numbers are mostly due to the Score Effect, as the Stars got most of the offensive action in 5-on-5 play after the Predators took the lead.

Dallas Stars

Player	Pos	ES TOI	Total Shots For	Total Shots Against	Corsi	Net Zone Starts	Adjusted Corsi
Derek Roy	C	15:52	25	5	+20	+5	+18
Ray Whitney	L	15:14	24	5	+19	+5	+17
Cody Eakin	C	13:07	16	10	+6	0	+6
Loui Eriksson	L	13:05	20	8	+12	+7	+9
Erik Cole	L	12:28	17	5	+12	+4	+10
Jaromir Jagr	R	11:38	11	8	+3	+1	+3
Reilly Smith	R	11:22	9	10	-1	0	-1
Ryan Garbutt	C	9:52	15	5	+10	0	+10
Vernon Fiddler	L	9:36	10	6	+4	0	+4
Tomas Vincour	C	9:35	14	6	+8	+5	+6
Eric Nystrom	L	9:24	8	6	+2	0	+2
Antoine Roussel	L	7:56	8	7	+1	+6	-1
Jordie Benn	D	17:57	19	14	+5	+5	+3
Trevor Daley	D	16:37	15	13	+2	+5	0
Alex Goligoski	D	16:33	23	10	+13	+4	+11
Brenden Dillon	D	16:01	26	10	+16	0	+16
Stephane Robidas	D	14:30	22	7	+15	+2	+14
Jamie Oleksiak	D	11:48	13	5	+8	+6	+6

Poll

Who is your Predator of the Game?

• Rich Clune
• Pekka Rinne
• Shea Weber

  142 votes | Results

Nashville Predators @ Dallas Stars: Game Coverage

Without their two top offensive forwards, the Nashville Predators embark on a pivotal 5-game road trip that begins tonight at Dallas.

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Dallas Stars
Record	10-9-6	20th	12-10-2	18th
GF/Game	2.08	30th	2.75	15th
GA/Game	2.24	4th	2.79	16th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	26.7	24th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	5th	29.0	18th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	50.21	17th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.912	18th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	7.0	8th
# of PP's/Gm	3.16	26th	3.62	17th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	27th	4.7	5th
# of PK's/Gm	3.36	6th	4.25	30th

The Stars are barely a step ahead of the Predators in the Western Conference standings, but do enjoy a game in hand. The real area of opportunity for Nashville is in the Stars' lack of discipline, which has caused them to work the penalty kill more often than any other team in the league (although an analysis at Defending Big D suggests they are starting to show more restraint).

In their previous meeting this season, the Predators mounted a comeback to win 5-4 in overtime, in a spirited affair that featured a lot of jabbering from former Pred Vern Fiddler. Will he keep it up now that Rich Clune is uncaged?

Stay Calm, and check out the OTF T-Shirt Store!

Dallas Stars

While the rebuild in Dallas hasn't exactly made great leaps forward, Stars fans are encouraged at least to be in contention for the playoffs, given the youth movement that is underway. Take for example this look at the Stars' defensive performance at even strength, which is basically the same as last season's:

I have a feeling that if you told Glen Gulutzan and Joe Nieuwendyk that this stat would basically be the same this year as it was last year, they would have gladly taken it knowing that so many rookies would be assimilated into the defense corps this season.

I suppose there's still time for things to go south on this front as 24 games is still a rather small sample size. But there's probably as good a chance that this number will steadily improve as the season wears on. Brenden Dillon's been a nice surprise all first half long. And Jordie Benn and Jamie Oleksiak may have started to figure a few things out at this level that they weren't figuring out earlier in the season.

--- Brandon Bigg, Defending Big D

It doesn't sound like the Preds will have to face the Stars' top forward, Jamie Benn, who is doubtful with a wrist injury. With Benn idled, there's some old guy who's actually leading Dallas in scoring:

---

Jaromir Jagr

#68 / Right Wing / Dallas Stars

Height: 6-3

Weight: 245

Born: Feb 15, 1972

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Jaromir Jagr	23	10	8	18	-1	16	5	0	1		62	16.1

---

Here is a look at the Stars' lines from practice yesterday, without Jamie Benn, courtesy of Defending Big D:

FORWARDS

Smith-Eakin-Jagr Whitney-Roy-Cole Fraser-Roussel-Eriksson Nystrom-Fiddler-Garbutt DEFENSE Robidas-Dillon Daley-Benn Goligoski-Oleksiak

Nashville Predators

We all know the main story here: the lowest-scoring team in the league lost its two most consistently dangerous forwards as Colin Wilson and Patric Hornqvist were put on Injured Reserve.

The line combinations will be interesting to watch, I wouldn't even hazard a guess as to what they'll look like tonight. With Brandon Yip back in the mix, and the new guys Bobby Butler and Zach Boychuk still getting familiar with things, I would expect a good deal of experimentation over the next few games.

What it all comes down to tonight is a whole-team effort to rally around the Predators' core principles to fight through their current adversity. Beyond that, however, they absolutely need some of their forwards to step forward and carry the load offensively.

Perhaps that guy might be Yip, who has enjoyed some success against Dallas traditionally:

---

Brandon Yip

#18 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 195

Born: Apr 25, 1985

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Brandon Yip	19	2	3	5	0	17	0	0	0		17	11.8

---

In 11 career games vs. the Stars, Yip has four goals and five assists for nine points, the most production he's had against any NHL club.

While nobody would wish to face a 5-game roadie under the present circumstances, the Predators have no choice but to tackle it as best they can. What's your take on how they'll do?

Wednesday's Dump & Chase: Corey Perry Hit Likely to Draw NHL Suspension

Nashville Predators News

Starting tonight, we’ll find out if the Preds are buyers or sellers… | Section 303
The Preds can hold off slapping those For Sale signs on guys for a few more days, at least.

Smashville 24/7 - Three Preds offer thoughts on visors topic
Robby's article raises the case for the NHL mandating a visor requirement that's grandfathered in for current players. The problem is that too many players are too cautious to promote such a measure at the risk of imposing on their peers.

Felder’s Focus: An Old Voice and a Tough Choice | The Predatorial
Brandon Felder lends his voice to the growing "it's not Barry's fault" chorus for how this team is trending, point blame a little higher on the organizational ladder...

Watch surprise center ice reunion between serviceman, family at Cincinnati Cyclones game (VIDEO) | Puck Daddy
Great stuff from the Preds' ECHL affiliate.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Court of Public Opinion: Corey Perry puts a shoulder into Jason Zucker’s brain shell | Backhand Shelf
Honestly, I don't see this as much of a villainous hit like many others do. Yes it is late, but Zucker leaves himself in a very vulnerable position, and it didn't appear to me that Perry was targeting the head. Since Zucker got hurt, however, that will probably lead to a Shanaban. Here's a video in case you missed it, but what do you think?

Report: Are Miller's Days "Numbered" In Buffalo? - Die By The Blade
Could the Sabres ship out their franchise goalie?

Fired Columbus GM Scott Howson rejoins Edmonton Oilers in a scouting capacity … for now | Edmonton Journal
Talk about a perfect match...

NHL Awards Watch: What if Ryan Suter gets Norris nod and Shea Weber doesn’t? | Puck Daddy
There would be a great wailing and gnashing of teeth, certainly.

Ilya Bryzgalov: Philadelphia Flyers 'done' if they lose twice to New Jersey Devils - NHL.com
Remarkably plain talk for a professional hockey player.

NHL, NHLPA agree to change escrow rate to 20 percent, according to sources - ESPN
So, it turns out that revenues aren't so robust as had been initially reported. While ticket-buying fans are back in the building, I wonder to what extent corporate partners got steep discounts to stay engaged with teams and/or the league during the lockout.

Who's responsible for San Jose's scoring woes? - Fear The Fin
As if scoring just barely over two goals per game is a problem?

Statistician forecasts tougher second half for resurgent Maple Leafs - The Globe and Mail

And here I didn't think the Leafs were due to fall for another six months...

Down Goes Brown: A brief history of Chris Pronger

"October 10, 1974 - Chris Pronger is born to Jim and Eila Pronger in Dryden, Ontario, according to a doctor holding an icepack over his black eye and muttering that he could swear that kid did that on purpose."

Help Wanted at OTF

The writing lineup here at OTF undergoes changes from time to time, and now we have openings for a couple of spots for the right volunteers. If any of these areas interest you, email me at the.forechecker@gmail.com, and let's talk!

Applicants must be self-starters, able to promptly publish articles for their particular area using the best practices and guidelines provided by myself and SB Nation. We'll bring you up to speed on our cutting-edge publishing platform, Chorus, and your illuminating prose will be read by thousands.

So here's where I'm looking for some help:

Game Previews and/or Recaps

Can you set the table for game day, bringing together the stats, latest roster updates, and story lines that get folks ready for the evening puck drop? After the game, it's imperative to have a recap/reaction post available as quickly as possible, so we can exult in victory/groan in defeat together.

Daily Links

An OTF staple is the Dump & Chase, a collection of the most interesting and newsworthy items from around Nashville and the hockey world beyond. A wide-ranging sense of the hockey scene is essential for this role, so as to highlight the most relevant and insightful offerings for our readers.

How To Apply

If one of these opportunities interests you, email me at the.forechecker@gmail.com and we'll get the conversation rolling.

Nashville Predators @ Dallas Stars Preview: The Hard Road Begins

The Stats

	Nashville Predators		Dallas Stars
Record	10-9-6	20th	12-10-2	18th
GF/Game	2.08	30th	2.75	15th
GA/Game	2.24	4th	2.79	16th
5-on-5 SF/60	23.3	30th	26.7	24th
5-on-5 SA/60	26.0	5th	29.0	18th
Fenwick Close	46.25	24th	50.21	17th
5-on-5 Save %	.931	4th	.912	18th
5-on-4 GF/60	5.7	17th	7.0	8th
# of PP's/Gm	3.16	26th	3.62	17th
4-on-5 GA/60	8.0	27th	4.7	5th
# of PK's/Gm	3.36	6th	4.25	30th

The Stars are barely a step ahead of the Predators in the Western Conference standings, but do enjoy a game in hand. The real area of opportunity for Nashville is in the Stars' lack of discipline, which has caused them to work the penalty kill more often than any other team in the league (although an analysis at Defending Big D suggests they are starting to show more restraint).

In their previous meeting this season, the Predators mounted a comeback to win 5-4 in overtime, in a spirited affair that featured a lot of jabbering from former Pred Vern Fiddler. Will he keep it up now that Rich Clune is uncaged?

Stay Calm, and check out the OTF T-Shirt Store!

Dallas Stars

While the rebuild in Dallas hasn't exactly made great leaps forward, Stars fans are encouraged at least to be in contention for the playoffs, given the youth movement that is underway. Take for example this look at the Stars' defensive performance at even strength, which is basically the same as last season's:

I have a feeling that if you told Glen Gulutzan and Joe Nieuwendyk that this stat would basically be the same this year as it was last year, they would have gladly taken it knowing that so many rookies would be assimilated into the defense corps this season.

I suppose there's still time for things to go south on this front as 24 games is still a rather small sample size. But there's probably as good a chance that this number will steadily improve as the season wears on. Brenden Dillon's been a nice surprise all first half long. And Jordie Benn and Jamie Oleksiak may have started to figure a few things out at this level that they weren't figuring out earlier in the season.

--- Brandon Bigg, Defending Big D

It doesn't sound like the Preds will have to face the Stars' top forward, Jamie Benn, who is doubtful with a wrist injury. With Benn idled, there's some old guy who's actually leading Dallas in scoring:

---

Jaromir Jagr

#68 / Right Wing / Dallas Stars

Height: 6-3

Weight: 245

Born: Feb 15, 1972

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Jaromir Jagr	23	10	8	18	-1	16	5	0	1		62	16.1

---

Here is a look at the Stars' lines from practice yesterday, without Jamie Benn, courtesy of Defending Big D:

FORWARDS

Smith-Eakin-Jagr Whitney-Roy-Cole Fraser-Roussel-Eriksson Nystrom-Fiddler-Garbutt DEFENSE Robidas-Dillon Daley-Benn Goligoski-Oleksiak

Nashville Predators

We all know the main story here: the lowest-scoring team in the league lost its two most consistently dangerous forwards as Colin Wilson and Patric Hornqvist were put on Injured Reserve.

The line combinations will be interesting to watch, I wouldn't even hazard a guess as to what they'll look like tonight. With Brandon Yip back in the mix, and the new guys Bobby Butler and Zach Boychuk still getting familiar with things, I would expect a good deal of experimentation over the next few games.

What it all comes down to tonight is a whole-team effort to rally around the Predators' core principles to fight through their current adversity. Beyond that, however, they absolutely need some of their forwards to step forward and carry the load offensively.

Perhaps that guy might be Yip, who has enjoyed some success against Dallas traditionally:

---

Brandon Yip

#18 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 195

Born: Apr 25, 1985

---

---

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Brandon Yip	19	2	3	5	0	17	0	0	0		17	11.8

---

In 11 career games vs. the Stars, Yip has four goals and five assists for nine points, the most production he's had against any NHL club.

While nobody would wish to face a 5-game roadie under the present circumstances, the Predators have no choice but to tackle it as best they can. What's your take on how they'll do?

Nashville Predators News: Patric Hornqvist & Colin Wilson Placed on Injured Reserve

Willy Daunic was the first on Twitter to bring us the grim news:

Hornqvist and Wilson on IR

— Willy Daunic (@WillyD1025) March 11, 2013

With Patric Hornqvist and Colin Wilson both heading to Injured Reserve, that means each will be out of action for at least seven days from the date of injury (Friday vs. Edmonton for Hornqvist, Saturday vs. Minnesota for Wilson).

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Patric Hornqvist

#27 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 188

Born: Jan 01, 1987

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	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Patric Hornqvist	14	3	5	8	-1	6	3	0	1		54	5.6

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Colin Wilson

#33 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 214

Born: Oct 20, 1989

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	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG		SOG	PCT
2012 - Colin Wilson	25	7	12	19	1	4	2	0	1		26	26.9

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Putting Hornqvist & Wilson on IR reduces the Preds' Active Roster to 21 players (out of a maximum of 23). It sounds like Brandon Yip was practicing with the team today, so he may be eligible to come back off Injured Reserve in time for tomorrow's game at Dallas (UPDATE: Yip has now been activated). That leaves room for one more addition, for example by calling someone up from Milwaukee. Matt Halischuk is already on the Active Roster, as he has returned from his conditioning stint with the Admirals.

In case you missed it, here's a look at what happened to Hornqvist against the Oilers:

Tuesday's Dump & Chase: Sergei Kostitsyn is No Dope

Nashville Predators News

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The boys are going to shake things up.

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Ryan mourns the passing of an AHL institution.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

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What a Hall of Villains this would be... my vote goes to Claude Lemieux.

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Twitter blew up last night when the Ottawa forward tried something novel.

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Might the trade market start to percolate soon?

Edmonton Oilers to trade Sam Gagner? NHL insider says it’s a possibility. | Edmonton Journal
Sure, they've got a trio of #1 overall draft picks, but in the coming years the Oilers will have a difficult job assembling a competitive roster around them, if they can't afford to keep guys.

Trading Jarome Iginla: It’s a rather delicate situation for Calgary Flames | Puck Daddy
Well sentimentality overrule practicality in Calgary?

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It makes boatloads of sense to institute a visor requirement that grandfathers in current NHL players who may not want to make that shift.

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Um...

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Stu Hackel, Sergei Makarov sympathizer.

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I'm still a bit surprised that Nolan hasn't received another chance.

And lastly (as found at Kukla's Korner), check out the IIHF's "Green Puck" anti-doping campaign video, featuring none other than Sergei Kostitsyn...

1st Half Report Cards: The Wings

For details on the advanced stats appearing in the boxes below, consult the 1st half post on the defense & goaltending. Note, the advanced stats (ARC, Comp & Team) are from the 23-game point, before Friday's game vs. Edmonton.

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Gabriel Bourque

#57 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-10

Weight: 192

Born: Mar 04, 1989

1st Quarter Grade: B

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Gabriel Bourque	23	6	2	8	4	+2.26	+0.80	+0.04

Bourque shook off a slow start to take over the team goal-scoring lead of late, which is as much an indictment of the incumbent Top Six as it is an endorsement of Gabby's play.

Grade: B

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Rich Clune

#16 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-10

Weight: 198

Born: Apr 25, 1987

1st Quarter Grade: C

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Rich Clune	24	2	2	4	46	-0.05	-1.86	-1.22

Fans love his energetic physical game and willingness to drop the gloves on behalf of his teammates. He's earned a steady NHL job to this point, so you'd have to say he's exceeded expectations.

Grade: B-

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Martin Erat

#10 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 201

Born: Aug 29, 1981

1st Quarter Grade: A-

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Martin Erat	24	3	10	13	26	+2.48	+0.78	+1.09

After a great start, Marty has tailed off considerably. He hasn't scored a goal in over a month (February 5 at St. Louis), and his advanced stats have taken a tumble as well. Erat is supposed to be this team's top offensive weapon, but he hasn't look at all like that recently.

Grade: C+

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Matt Halischuk

#24 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 185

Born: Jun 01, 1988

1st Quarter Grade: D

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Matt Halischuk	16	0	1	1	6	+2.08	+0.09	-1.49

His recent banishment to Milwaukee has many wondering if his days in the Predators organization are numbered. Will some confidence-boosting performances with the Admirals lead to better times when he returns to Nashville?

Grade: D

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Patric Hornqvist

#27 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 188

Born: Jan 01, 1987

1st Quarter Grade: B

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Patric Hornqvist	14	3	5	8	6	+17.08	+1.61	+0.27

Hornqvist is one of the few Nashville forwards who causes problems for opposing teams on a consistent basis, even if he's not scoring. Hopefully his latest injury isn't too serious, because nobody drives the Shots For & Against battle more positively than he does.

Grade: B+

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Sergei Kostitsyn

#74 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 207

Born: Mar 20, 1987

1st Quarter Grade: D+

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Sergei Kostitsyn	25	2	9	11	4	+7.57	+0.16	-0.72

Should we get excited about the fact that SK74 has eight points (one goal, seven assists) in his last 13 games? I'll give him a bit of an uptick for that, but the fact that he has exactly as many goals (2) and shots on goal (19) as Rich Clune is an embarrassment for a guy making $3 million.

Grade: C-

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Craig Smith

#15 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 197

Born: Sep 05, 1989

1st Quarter Grade: D

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Craig Smith	25	3	3	6	10	-2.08	-0.76	-0.14

The occasional shootout dangler aside, this has been a tremendously disappointing season for Smith, who has the speed and hands to be a dangerous NHL forward, but just can't put it all together. He's received some opportunity to play center rather than wing of late, so we'll have to see how that situation develops.

Grade: D

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Colin Wilson

#33 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 214

Born: Oct 20, 1989

1st Quarter Grade: A

Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Colin Wilson	25	7	12	19	4	+12.38	+1.34	-0.18

With 18 points in his last 18 games (six goals, 12 assists), Wilson has been the brightest ray of hope on a team struggles desperately to score. He's the one guy who can create goals through individual effort, and appears to relish the opportunity to take the responsibility for offensive leadership on his shoulders. The hockey gods were cruel to strike him down last night in the Minnesota game.

Grade: A

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Brandon Yip

#18 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 195

Born: Apr 25, 1985

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Player	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM	ARC	Comp	Team
Brandon Yip	19	2	3	5	17	-6.70	-0.67	-1.72

Folks were giddy over a couple goals that Yip scored back in January, but his offensive production dried up long ago and his advanced stats are basically the worst on the team in 5-on-5 play. Injury has kept him out recently, and it remains to be seen whether he can earn ice time again now that more offensively-talented wingers like Zach Boychuk and Bobby Butler are around.

Grade: C-

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