All of the offseason moves have been made, the ice is down and ready to go, and Bridgestone Arena is set for opening night! The arena will be packed tonight with fans in gold and red. After the way that the season ended, the Predators are ready to get back on the ice. With expectations high, this season could be one for the ages for the Nashville Predators. Listen to Ryan Ellis speak following morning skate above.
Keys to watch
The Loyal Legion
To say that Bridgestone Arena will be hopping tonight is an understatement of biblical proportions. The Predators organization has been planning this night since the schedule was released. There are many factors that go into tonight’s hype. Whether it be a nationally televised match-up, going against a heated rival in Chicago, or it be opening night, tonight could be the biggest opening night in franchise history. The Predators will rely on the fans to give them an added boost. Nashville needs to score early to keep the crowd in the game.
Can the Blackhawks Rebound?
On Wednesday night, the Blackhawks opened their season against the St. Louis Blues at the United Center. In an uncharacteristic fashion of a Chicago squad, the Hawks were undisciplined in a 5-2 loss against the Blues. The Blackhawks will look to rebound and refocus their sights against the Predators. If Chicago gets a quick goal, Nashville could have a rough night against a very talented Hawks team with All-World talent in multiple positions. A player to watch tonight will be Patrick Kane. He did not get a point on Wednesday night and will be looking to rebound after his less-than stellar performance against St. Louis
P.K. Subban’s Debut
The stable section for the blue line of the Nashville Predators for a very long time was Shea Weber. His replacement, P.K. Subban, must play his game and be an active blueliner for the Predators. Does he have big shoes to fill? Absolutely. Does he need to be Weber? No. He needs to be a strong presence on defense and active with the puck. He is a magnetic player with phenomenal offensive capabilities. Subban can’t be weak defensively and must produce points. It’s time for him to shine in Music City.
The Nashville Predators will look to begin the 2016–17 season with a win against a division foe. With an added boost of being at home, it is necessary for this team to get on track early. Be sure to catch all of the action on NBCSN or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 7:00pm!
