Keys to Watch

Repeat the Third

The Nashville Predators were able to capture Game One from the Colorado Avalanche in front of a packed house on Thursday night 5-2. With Rascal Flatts continuing the tradition of a star-studded National Anthem in the Music City, Nashville was able to use the crowd to their advantage. Early on, the Predators struggled, but picked up the pace during the last ten minutes of the second period. Nashville was able to come alive during the final period when Filip Forsberg took over the game with two goals, the last being spectacular.

Nashville needs more of the play like was observed during the third period. A solid start to this afternoon tilt could place the Predators in a good spot to go up 2-0 in the series.

Expect Physicality

At the end of Game One, there were a lot of extra-curriculars from the Avs. Viktor Arvidsson took a shot late in the game when Nashville was up 5-2 with only a few seconds remaining. The “media” in Denver has began a blitz of negatives against the Nashville Predators, the city of Nashville, and the fine people of the Loyal Legion. Quotes from the Avs seem as though they will bring a more physical approach to Game Two and try to make a “run” at the Predators players, especially the top end talent. It would not surprise me to see Scott Hartnell in the lineup this afternoon for some extra muscle, but he is not projected as a start as of right now.

Penalties

The Nashville Predators did a respectable job during the second half of Thursday’s game staying out of the penalty box. Nashville’s penalty kill did an excellent job killing all three of the opportunities that Colorado had with a man-advantage. We all know that Colorado has a potent, offensively-skilled power play. Don’t give them the opportunity to score, and Nashville can not make silly mistakes that put them down a skater.

The Nashville Predators will look to go up 2-0 in the series as they welcome the Colorado Avalanche into Smashville for this afternoon contest. Be sure to catch all of the action on NBC or CNBC. You can also listen live on 102.5 The Game. Puck drops at 2:00!

Brandon Eldridge

Brandon was born and raised in Lebanon, Tennessee but eventually moved to McMinnville, Tennessee after marrying his wife, Lindsey. He is a graduate of Cumberland University (GO BULLDOGS) with a Master of Arts in Education. Growing up in Middle Tennessee, hockey was not an interest early in life. He is a hockey convert. His introduction to hockey was through free tickets from his grandmother for a game between the Predators and the Dallas Stars. After this initial introduction, it has truly been an obsession. Along with his wife and son, Brandon goes to as many games as he can. From statistics to player interactions, he has become the ultimate hockey fan. He is a proud father, teacher, history nerd, music-lover, and true sports fanatic!