Keys to Watch
Forsberg’s Scoring
One dilemma for the Nashville Predators this season has been the scoring of Filip Forsberg. Currently, his assists are leading the team with 12 and 16th in the NHL overall. His assist numbers are great. He is able to help teammates produce on a higher clip than others. But, the Ostervala, Sweeden native could not buy a goal this season. On the year, through 18 games, Forsberg has one goal. Needless to say, the Predators will need him to start catching some breaks and finally begin scoring goals on a regular basis.
Missed Shots
One interesting story-line to focus on tonight’s match-up will be how both teams respond after coming off wins. Both teams have relatively high missed shot numbers this season and these wins will have built confidence. Increased confidence represents a higher percentage of shots taken and could lead to more missed shots. Dallas has missed far and away more shots than Nashville this season with 271, 2nd in the NHL. The Preds are 17th in the NHL with 215 missed shots this season.
Stars Struggling on Defense
The Dallas Stars have one of the weakest defensive teams in the NHL so far this season. Dallas has split time with their goaltenders this season due to these ongoing struggles. Antti Niemi has started nine games this season with 4-2-0 record, 3.17 goals-against average, and .903 save percentage. Kari Lehtonen has started eleven games with 4-5-0 record, 3.31 goals-against average, and .889 save percentage. As a team, the Stars have allowed 66 goals this season which ties them for 2nd most in the NHL. They have allowed 3.30 goals scored per game which places them in first place for the most in the NHL. The Stars have struggled this season on defense and will send Kari Lehtonen out to stop the Nashville offense.
The Nashville Predators will look to continue their positive home-stand with a win tonight. Be sure to catch all of the action tonight on Fox Sports-Tennessee or you can listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 7:00 pm!
