Keys to Watch
Clear Your Mind!
Last night, the Nashville Predators caught a bad break. For those unclear of what I am referring to, let me refresh your memory…
Corey Crawford steps out into Craig Smith… takes a dive. #Preds #CHIvsNSH pic.twitter.com/Xa9J7sC8jS
— Thomas Willis (@TomAWillis) December 30, 2016
Craig Smith was called for tripping Corey Crawford, which we all know, was complete garbage. The Predators caught a bad break, in a tough situation, against a bitter division rival and were not able to respond. After this happened, their penalty kill had every opportunity to stop Johnathan Toews from scoring at 11:04. They had every ability to not allow the game-winning goal to Patrick Kane. This game does not define their season. The Predators must positively respond and come out with a win tonight against another division rival, the St. Louis Blues. December has been abysmal to the Predators and, if they plan to make the playoffs, their play must change.
Slowing down #91
Vladimir Tarasenko is the most dynamic skater on the St. Louis Blues roster. In 36 games this season, the Yaroslavl, Russia native has 16 goals and 23 assists which places him fourth in the NHL for total points with 39. His 15 power-play points ranks him 8th in the league. Tarasenko is an offensive force that is difficult to stop, but you can slow him down with physical play. He only has two points over the last five games, and will be looking to break out against the Predators. The Nashville defense has to keep a body on Tarasenko at all times. If he gets open shots, it could be an offensive breakout for #91.
Forsberg Producing
All season, the Nashville Predators have needed more offensive production from many of their forwards, but especially Filip Forsberg. It seems as though Forsberg might have turned a corner this season with four goals in the last five games. The Ostervala, Sweeden native now have seven goals this season with 14 assists. The Predators need Forsberg to keep producing and hopefully the tides will change for this squad.
The Predators will look to recover from the let down from Thursday night to get a win on the road tonight. Be sure to catch all of the action on Fox Sports-Tennessee or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 7:00 pm!
