Jordin Tootoo squeezing passed Marc Methot of Columbus. May I ask why Blum looks like he's just hanging out in the back?

The Predators did not disappoint during their season opener on Friday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, squeezing a win by 3 – 2. Although a win is a win, it was clear that the boys are still learning how to simply shoot. Luckily, Pekka was still up to his old tricks with 32 saves during the game (phew!). However, we were quickly introduced to just why we asked rookie Craig Smith to leave college in Wisconsin to join the team. Smith scored his first NHL goal and continued to shoot, shoot, shoot (which, as Preds fans, we love). Ryan Suter actually scored the first goal on a Power Play, which the team has been doing quite well with. The Blue Jackets tied the game up, but rookie Matt Halischuk shot the game winning goal within the first minute of the third period.

The Predators have started out looking quite good this season and, with rookies that take charge like Smith and Halischuk, the Predators could definitely go much farther during this new season.

The Predators plan to continue their wins as they play on the road again on Saturday in St. Louis against the Blues.