Keys to Watch
Fiddler is Back
The Nashville Predators acquired former Pred, Vernon Fiddler, on February 4th. In his career, Fiddler has played in 857 NHL games over 14 seasons with Nashville, Phoenix (Arizona), Dallas, and New Jersey. For the Devils, the Edmonton, Alberta native only has three points in 37 games this season. For the Predators, he will play an important role of the gritty, penalty-killing forward. We will see how he plays tonight as he is projected to be on the fourth line.
A Hungry Team
The Vancouver Canucks are currently in a downward trend. They have lost three straight (Minnesota, San Jose, Arizona) by giving up a total of 13 goals while only scoring four. Over the last five games, they only have one win (January 25th, Colorado 3-2). Once as a playoff bubble team, they now sit five points out of the wildcard race and need a course correction to give themselves the opportunity for post-season play. They will be looking to come into Bridgestone Arena tonight to get the victory. The Predators must play smart, disciplined hockey to give come out with a victory.
Lineup Changes
Tonight, due to minor injuries and the acquisition of Fiddler, the Nashville Predators will be switching around their lineup. Here is the projected lineup for tonight:
Forwards
James Neal – Ryan Johansen – Filip Forsberg
Colton Sissons / Pontus Aberg – Mike Fisher – Craig Smith
Colin Wilson – Calle Jarnkrok – Viktor Arvidsson
Austin Watson – Vernon Fiddler – Cody McLeod
Defense
Goaltenders
The Predators will end their three-game home stretch as the Vancouver Canucks enter into Nashville. Be sure to catch all of tonight’s action on Fox Sports-Tennessee or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 7:00 pm!
