Keys to Watch
Playing 60
After Nashville was able to get a quick start in Game 4, the Predators are now one win away from moving on to the 2nd round of the Stanley Cup playoffs between either Winnipeg or Minnesota. Standing in their way will be a determined Colorado squad looking to push the series back to the Pepsi Center. One aspect that is plaguing the Preds is the fact that they have not played a full 60 minute contest for this entire series.
Nashville had slow starts to the first three contests of the series. In Game 4, Nashville started out strong, but played to survive survive during the second half of the game. The Nashville Predators will be back in the friendly confines of Bridgestone Arena. It is time to show the Nashville Predators that we have seen for a majority of the season.
Without Bernier
At the start of the third period, Colorado goaltender Jonathan Bernier left the game due to a lower-body injury and won’t be available for tonight’s contest. Andrew Hammond will get the start in net for the Avalanche. Hammond played well in Game 4, not allowing the Predators to score.
Nashville must capitalize with the third string goaltender for the Avalanche being entered into the game tonight. With playing a full contest, the Preds must get plenty of shots and traffic in front of the net to end this series.
After the Suspension
Ryan Hartman has been suspended for Game 5 due to a hit to the head in Game 4. With the “feisty” player out, the Preds will look toward either Miika Salomaki or veteran Scott Hartnell to fill the void. Hartman played a significant role in the first four games as instigator. It will be interesting to see who get the call tonight.
The Nashville Predators will look to clinch the series and move on to Round 2. You can catch all of the action on Fox Sports-Tennessee, NBCSN, or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 8:30 PM!
