After a solid performance in Thursday’s game against the Ottawa Senators, the Nashville Predators are back on the ice versus the Dallas Stars. The Predators scored three goals in the third period to beat the Senators 3-2. This will be the first of five games between the two Central Division rivals in the 2014-2015 campaign.
The Dallas Stars (0-0-1) lost their first game of the season in a shootout loss to Central Division rival, the Chicago Blackhawks. The Dallas Stars were able to come out very strong against the Blackhawks, but struggled in the third period. The Stars will look to get on the winning path against the Predators.
The Stars have a few injuries to contend with leading up to their match Saturday night at Bridgestone Arena. Defenseman Sergei Gonchar (ankle) has been ruled out as well as former Nashville Predator Rich Peverley (heart) is on injured non-roster status. Tyler Seguin missed Star’s practice on Friday but is expected to be in the lineup against the Predators.
Keys to watch:
The Stars Shoot!
The Dallas Stars are not afraid to shoot the puck. During their opening night loss, the Stars outshot the Blackhawks 34-26. Cody Eakin and Ales Hemsky led the team with four shots a piece while three other players had three shots on net. The Predators will need to block plenty of shots and help out Pekka Rinne at the defensive end.
Filip Forsberg!
Going into the season opener, there were high hopes for Center Filip Forsberg. In game one, he did not disappoint the Nashville faithful. With two assists and a +2 rating, Forsberg showed that he is ready for the NHL. It may early in the season, but the young, Ostervala, Sweden native is showing great signs for the future.
Strong play by young defensemen
The Nashville Predators showed depth and determination from Seth Jones and Ryan Ellis on Thursday night. Both played a solid game on both offensive and defensive ends of the ice. The Predators will need continual growth and solid play for the team’s ongoing success.
The Predators are showing signs of early season success. Tonight will be a tough test against a strong rival. Puck drops tonight at 7:00pm. Get out to Bridgestone Arena to support your Preds!
