Keys to Watch
Last Minute Lineup Changes
On November 30th, the Nashville Predators signed veteran Adam Pardy to a two-way contract worth $575,000 at the NHL level and $175,000 at the American Hockey League (AHL) level in 2016-17. Pardy has played in 338 games on the NHL level. While preparing for today’s preview, the Nashville Predators recalled Pardy from Milwaukee as of 9:15 am (CST). He brings experience and will be an added change to the lineup and bulk at the bottom of the defensive pairings.
Special Teams
There are many adjectives that describe the Nashville Predators special teams, especially penalty kill, in the month of November: exceptional, outstanding, prodigious, and tremendous. The Predators have only allowed one goal while down a skater during the month of November. At a stoppage rate of 85.3%, Nashville has increased their ranking among the NHL best to sixth overall in the league. All season, the Predators have been one of the best teams on the power-play and that still remains at 23.2%. Their success is dependent upon successful special teams play.
Stopping Zajac
Travis Zajac has been the bright offensive spot on a struggling Devils squad. The Devils have only scored 56 goals this season placing them 22nd in the NHL. Comparatively, the Predators are 12th in the NHL with 65 goals on the season. Zajac has been successful over the past five games with eight points (four goals, four assists) over this span. The Winnipeg, MB forward had his best game of the season on Thursday night scoring a hat-trick against the Chicago Blackhawks in their 4-3 overtime loss. The Predators will need to keep a body on Zajac with his increased offensive production.
The Nashville Predators are looking to open a three-game home-stand with a win. The Predators versus the Devils will have a special 1:00 pm puck drop. Be sure to catch all of the action on Fox Sports-Tennessee or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game.
