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Hörnqvist Injury Determined, out 3-4 Weeks

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After taking a slap shot from Shea Weber and a nasty hit against the boards from Ryan Getzlaf Saturday night, Patric Hörnqvist’s lower-body injury has a name and a length of recovery time: a sprained knee that will leave him sidelined for 3-4 weeks.

Honestly, we are wiping our brows. Just look at the photo above. Hörnqvist’s injury looked much worse than what the initial outcome has presented, thankfully.

Hörnqvist is back in Nashville after seeking medical attention and it looks like someone like Colin Wilson or Paul Gaustad will be stepping up to take the often beaten and pummeled Horny’s position near the net.

The Predators are in Phoenix tonight to face last year’s playoff foes, the Coyotes. The puck drops at 8PM.

NHL Shoots Down PA’s Proposals

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Well boys and girls, the optimism for a full season is dwindling fast. The NHL and NHLPA met today to discuss possible CBA negotiations, with the PA giving three counter offers of their own.

Unfortunately, what seemed like a positive step turned into a “backward step” per Gary Bettman as the he and the NHL shoot down all three of the NHLPA’s offers.

Back to zero.

What were the PA’s offers? Here they are in a nutshell:
– Proposal #1: A fixed players share for the next three years and, depending on growth, the amount will be decided.
– Proposal #2: The owners take 50% with 5% growth.
– Proposal #3: The players go 50/50 as long as the owners honor all the current contracts signed by the players.

Lots of room for discussion, right? Well, Bettman said both sides were “speaking different languages” when all was said and done. Personally, we believe Proposal #3 is the best of the choices, but obviously the owners do not feel the same way.

Information is still making its way to social media, so we’ll update with all the latest information.

Let the Negotiations Begin: NHL deals Proposal to NHLPA

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After more than 100 days after the NHL/NHLPA CBA talks began, the two sides have finally decided it’s time to negotiate. 

The National Hockey League, under the guidance of commissioner Gary Bettman, has proposed a 50/50 split amongst hockey related revenue (HRR) with the NHLPA. With this proposal, Bettman is attempting to  save the 82-game schedule, with it expected to start on November 2nd, if the NHLPA agrees.

With fans sighing with relief that at least one side has made a move, all is not quiet on the home front. The current split is at 57% in favor of the players, which (without doing the math) tells you with this new proposal, the players will lose money, wether all at once or long-term. 

So what could possibly hold the players’ association back from accepting this slice of pie, besides the 7% decrease in possible income? Well, there’s more to this proposal than a 50/50 split of HHR. Here is some of the fine print:

  • Five-year limit on long-term contracts. As of right now, there aren’t any limits.
  • Salary arbitration stays the same.
  • Unrestricted Free Agency would begin at the age of 28 and/or eight years of a NHL term.
  • Entry-level contracts would be extended from three years to four. 

     

 

So, what does Don Fehr and the players have to say? Not too much; at least, not for now. As much as we would have enjoyed the NHLPA to announce they’re acceptance to the proposal today, that was definitely a long shot in the dark. The NHLPA did announce that they will respond to the NHL’s proposal within 48 hours, so sometime on Wednesday or Thursday (hopefully).  Fehr also mentioned that, if the new proposal is agreed upon, the deal would last at least six years.

Again, after 100 days, we have lift off to a possible end in the lockout. 

– Photo courtesy of: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

 

 

Local Radio Station Employee sues Predators

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After the excitement of signing Shea Weber, all has been relatively quiet on the home front for the Nashville Predators. Well, or so we thought.

The Nashville City Paper released a story today that Adam Davis, better known to the Nashville community as Intern Adam of 107.5 The River, is suing the Nashville Predators for a incident that occured during a practice run for a on-ice promotion.

Per the statement Davis made to the newspaper, he suffered a broken ankle, was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center where doctors inserted screws into his ankles. Davis is suing due to the fact the Predators did not specify how dangerous the stunt was and that he did not sign a waiver.

If anyone has ever seen this “human hockey puck” stunt, you can tell just by looking at it something could go wrong; I mean, it is humans and ice, right? The chance of the Nashville Predators not having him sign a waiver is almost comical, but evidence will present itself in due time.

Once more information about the incident is released, we will update you with more information. Until then, here is the video of the accident in all its glory. Keep in mind, the Predators employees told Intern Adam to keep his feet tucked in…

Retiring the 2011-12 Season

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Patiently waiting for that beard to grow out once again!

Because we need to make room for the new schedule and just don’t have the room to add a page for old schedules, we’re just going to add it to this post and, in case you ever need to know how much the Predators beat the Red Wings at some point last season, here it shall be!

 

ROUND 1 AGAINST DETROIT:

Wednesday, April 11th – Detroit @ Predators -7PM (W 3-2)
Friday, April 13th – Detroit @ Predators – 6:30PM (L 3-2)
Sunday, April 15th – Predators @ Detroit – 11AM (W 3-2)
Tuesday, April 17th – Predators @ Detroit – 6:30PM (W 3-1)
Friday, April 20th – Detroit @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1)

ROUND 2 AGAINST PHOENIX:


Friday, April 27th – Predators @ Coyotes – 8PM (L 4-3 OT)
Sunday, April 29th – Predators @ Coyotes – 7PM (L 5-3)
Wednesday, May 2nd – Coyotes @ Predators (W 2-0)
Friday, May 4th – Coyotes @ Predators (L 1-0)
Monday, May 7th – Predators @ Coyotes (L 2-1)

Thanks for an amazing 2011-12 season, Preds!


2011-2012 Regular Season Schedule

October 2011:

Friday, October 7th – Predators @ Blue Jackets – 6PM (W 3-2)
Saturday, October 8th – Predators @ Blues – 7PM (W 4-2)
Thursday, October 13th – Coyotes @ Predators – 7PM (L 5-2)
Saturday, October 15th – Devils @ Predators – 7PM (L 3-2)
Monday, October 17th – Predators @ Oilers – 8:30PM (L 3-1)
Thursday, October 20th – Predators @ Canucks – 9PM (L 5-1)
Saturday, October 22nd – Predators @ Flames – 3PM (W 2-0)
Tuesday, October 25th – Sharks @ Predators – 7PM (L 3-1)
Thursday, October 27th – Lightning @ Predators – 7PM (W 5-3)
Saturday, October 29th – Ducks @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-0)
Monday, October 31st – Predators @ Blackhawks – 7:30PM (L 4-5 OT)

NOVEMBER 2011:

Thursday, November 3rd – Predators @ Coyotes – 9PM (W 3-0)
Saturday, November 5th – Predators @ Sharks – 9:30PM (W 4-3 OT)
Tuesday, November 8th – Predators @ Kings – 9:30PM (L 4-3)
Wednesday, November 9th – Predators @ Ducks – 9PM (W 4-2)
Saturday, November 12th – Canadiens @ Predators – 6PM (L 2-1 OT)
Tuesday, November 15th – Capitals @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-1)
Thursday, November 17th – Maple Leafs @ Predators – 7PM (W 4-1)
Saturday, November 19th – Blue Jackets @ Predators – 7PM (L 4-3 OT)
Tuesday, November 22nd – Oilers @ Predators  – 7PM (L 6-2)
Wednesday, November 23rd – Predators @ Wild – 7PM (L 3-2)
Saturday, November 26th – Predators @ Red Wings – 6PM (L 4-1)
Monday, November 28th – Predators @ Oilers – 8:30PM (W 2-1)
Tuesday, November 29th – Predators @ Flames – 8:30PM (L 1-0)

December 2011:

Thursday, December 1st – Predators @ Canucks – 9PM (W 6-5)
Saturday, December 3rd – Sabres @ Predators – 7PM (L 3-2)
Tuesday, December 6th – Coyotes @ Predators – 7PM (L 3-2)
Thursday, December 8th – Predators @ Blue Jackets – 6PM (W 4-3 OT)
Saturday, December 10th – Ducks @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-2)
Tuesday, December 13th – Flames @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1)
Thursday, December 15th – Red Wings @ Predators – 7PM (W 4-3)
Saturday, December 17th – Blues @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1 SO)
Tuesday, December 20th – Predators @ Capitals – 6PM (L 4-1)
Thursday, December 22nd – Blue Jackets @ Predators – 7PM (W 6-5)
Friday, December 23rd – Predators @ Stars – 7:30PM (L 6-3)
Monday, December 26th – Red Wings @ Predators – 7PM (L 4-1)
Wednesday, December 28th – Wild @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1 SO)
Friday, December 30th – Predators @ Blues – 7PM (W 2-1 SO)

JANUARY 2012:

Sunday, January 1st – Flames @ Predators – 5PM (W 5-3)
Thursday, January 5th – Stars @ Predators – 7PM (L 4-1)
Saturday, January 7th – Hurricanes @ Predators – 7PM (W 5-2)
Tuesday, January 10th – Predators @ Avalanche – 8PM (W 4-1)
Thursday, January 12th – Avalanche @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-2 OT)
Saturday, January 14th – Flyers @ Predators – 7PM (W 4-2)
Monday, January 16th – Predators @ Islanders – 12PM (W 3-1)
Tuesday, January 17th – Predators @ Rangers – 6:30PM (L 3-0)
Thursday, January 19th – Predators @ Blue Jackets – 6PM (W 3-0)
Saturday, January 21st – Blackhawks @ Predators – 7PM (W 5-2)
Monday, January 23rd – Blue Jackets @ Predators – 7PM (W 4-1)
Tuesday, January 24th – Predators @ Blackhawks – 7:30PM (W 3-1)
Tuesday, January 31st – Predators @ Wild – 7PM (W 5-4)

February 2012:

Thursday, February 2nd – Predators @ Flyers – 6PM (L 4-1)
Saturday, February 4th – Blues @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-1)
Tuesday, February 7th – Canucks @ Predators – 7PM (L 4-3 SO)
Thursday, February 9th – Predators @ Senators – 6:30PM (L 4-3)
Saturday, February 11th – Predators @ Bruins – 12PM (L 4-3 SO)
Tuesday, February 14th – Blackhawks @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-2)
Friday, February 17th – Predators @ Red Wings – 6:30PM (L 2-1)
Sunday, February 19th – Predators @ Stars – 6PM (W 3-2)
Tuesday, February 21st – Canucks @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-1)
Thursday, February 23rd – Blues @ Predators – 7PM (L 3-2 SO)
Saturday, February 25th – Sharks @ Predators – 7PM (W 6-2)
Monday, February 27th – Kings @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1)
Tuesday, February 28th – Predators @ Hurricanes – 6PM (L 4-3)

MARCH 2012:

Saturday, March 3rd – Predators @ Panthers – 6:30PM (W 3-1)
Tuesday, March 6th – Kings @ Predators – 7PM (L 5-4)
Thursday, March 8th – Avalanche @ Predators – 7PM (W 4-2)
Saturday, March 10th – Red Wings @ Predators – 7PM (W 3-2)
Monday, March 12th – Predators @ Coyotes – 9PM (W 5-4 SO)
Thursday, March 15th – Predators @ Sharks – 9:30PM (L 2-1 SO)
Saturday, March 17th – Predators @ Kings – 9:30PM (L 4-2)
Sunday, March 18th – Predators @ Ducks – 7PM (W 3-1)
Tuesday, March 20th – Oilers @ Predators – 7PM (L 6-3)
Thursday, March 22nd – Predators @ Penguins – 6PM (L 5-1)
Saturday, March 24th – Jets @ Predators – 6PM (W 3-1)
Sunday, March 25th – Predators @ Blackhawks – 6:30PM (W 6-1)
Tuesday, March 27th – Predators @ Blues – 7PM (L 3-0)
Friday, March 30th – Predators @ Red Wings – 6:30PM (W 4-1)
Saturday, March 31st – Blackhawks @ Predators – 7PM (L 5-4)

April 2012:

Tuesday, April 3rd – Wild @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-1 SO)
Thursday, April 5th – Stars @ Predators – 7PM (W 2-0)
Saturday, April 7th – Predators @ Avalanche – 8PM (W 6-1)

 

Should I Stay or Should I Go? RFA & UFA of the Nashville Predators

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All these kiddos (minus Nick Spaling) are could be packing their bags.

Say what you will, but the Nashville Predators are in bit of a pickle this off-season. With twenty players up for possible trade, General Manager David Poile has his hands full and quite a few difficult decisions to make. While most fans are focused fully on who the Predators can get to sign first (Suter or Weber), others are wondering what will become of the smaller pieces that made up the 2011-12 season. Below is a list of who’s up for grabs on the Predators roster in this off-season.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS:

Colin did pretty well during the regular season, but the young Center was faced with an all too familiar post-season during the playoffs. However, in what games he did manage to slip into, Wilson proved his worth for the Preds. Due to his leadership during this pivotal time, Colin Wilson – who was once considered good as gone – has now given us all a second thought. CURRENT SALARY: $875,000

Some would say keep SK74, others would say set his inconsistency free. Per reports, the younger Kostitsyn wants to re-sign with the Predators and, on record, he has done much better in the NHL with the Predators than former and draftee team, the Montreal Canadiens. Yet, this is the second-straight playoff season SK74 has disappeared and it may or may not effect his future with Nashville. CURRENTLY SALARY: $2.5 Million

There’s no doubt the David Poile will make El Capitan an offer, but will it be what he wants? After last off-season’s commotion, it’s more likely Poile will want to nip Weber’s contract extension in the bud before the media blows it out of proportion. Up for the Norris Trophy once again, Weber truly has the upper hand in his RFA situation. CURRENT SALARY: $7.5 Million

The long lost Russian returned to the team is deserted four years ago just in time for the playoffs and, at the beginning, proved successful for the Cup-hungry Preds. After a bout of immaturity and lack of discipline, Poile has made it clear Radulov will not be returning to the Predators line-up in the Fall. Wether he returns to the KHL or is traded amongst the NHL, Radulov will not be in Nashville next season. CURRENT SALARY: $984,000

One of the most likely trades of the off-season will more than likely involve a one, Anders Lindback. Although he may not bring a first or second rounder, Anders has proven himself ready as a starter and, with Pekka’s 7-year contract, it’s time for Lindy to see greener pastures. Jeremy Smith will be the likely backup to Pekka if Anders is enviably traded. CURRENT SALARY: $738,000

Jack Hillen is a fence rider, so to say. Some are dead-set on believing Hillen is gone, others believe he flies so far under the radar, there’s no way he won’t be on the roster next season. Head Coach Barry Trotz has shown favor in the D-Man, but again, Hillen is currently riding the fence. CURRENT SALARY: $650,000

MILWAUKEE’S FINEST:

JEREMY SMITH – As a possible replacement of Anders Lindback and backup to Pekka Rinne, it is likely Smith will not be traded during the off-season.  Looks like the Admirals goalie is in the clear.

JON BLUM – Blum was able to knock out thirty-three games before being sent to Milwaukee, but don’t let that misfortune fool you. Similar to Wilson, Blum is a hit or miss when it comes to trading. However, Blum will probably stay with Nashville for a second season.

CHRIS MUELLER – As the leader scorer for the Admirals, Mueller is unlikely to be traded this off-season, but will he see more than four games on the NHL level this coming season?

ZACH STORTINI – Stortini only played one game with the Predators before Brian McGrattan was picked up. Stortini will either continue with the Admirals or the Predators will attempt to get what they can for the enforcer.
RYAN THANG – His performance was very similar to last year, but we have a feel Thang will continue on with the Admirals for another season.
BRODIE DUPONT – Not much known about this guy, but he could be in the same position as Stortini when it comes to a possible trade.

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS:

As the man of the hour, Ryan Suter has say in just about where ever he wants to go and how much he’s going to make. Scary thought for both David Poile and Predators fans alike. Personally, we think Suter’s gone; just hopefully not to the Red Wings. CURRENT SALARY: $3.5 Million

 Although his little brother has a good chance of staying another year with Nashville, the future doesn’t look to bright in the Music City for the oldest Kostitsyn. AK46 did well in Nashville, but he and his brother did not power together as hoped. Where Andrei will go, there’s no telling, but the chances of his return to the Predators is almost unlikely. CURRENTLY SALARY: $3.25 Million

As one of the best known players in Predators history, seeing #22 go could be devastating to both the Predators franchise and fan base. Even though he put up his career-best numbers, Toots is getting swept by the tide of younger, more consistent players. Toots will more than likely return for one more season with Nashville. CURRENT SALARY: $1.35 Million

Paul Gaustad has been vocal about returning to Nashville and, as a master of face-offs and penalty killing, the feisty Center would be a sure keeper. Rumored to have said he’d take a pay cut to stay with the Preds, Gaustad’s return next season is iffy. CURRENT SALARY: $2.5 Million

Brandon Yip was all but tossed by the Colorado Avalanche, but excelled with the Predators during the playoffs. The chances of Yip returning in the Fall is very likely. CURRENT SALARY: $750,000 

Hal Gill’s leadership took a strong hold late in the season and, although side-lined during the Detroit series, through the playoffs. Like Gaustad, Gill has thrown around the idea of a pay cut to stay in Nashville and, out of the two, Gill seems most likely to stay. His future with Nashville is still in the air, though. CURRENT SALARY: $2.25 Million

This past season may have been the last we saw of The Cube, sadly. Great guy, but unfortunately, with the younger generation taking over, Frankie is falling through the cracks. Hopefully not, but Bouillon’s days could be numbered in Nashville. CURRENT SALARY: $1.5 Million

For someone who hasn’t spent that much time on the ice, Brian McGrattan has become one of the most likable players this past season. Due to this fact, the chances of McGrattan returning are highly likely. CURRENT SALARY: $600,000

MILWAUKEE’S FINEST:
TYLER SLOAN – This vet is on the fence for the Admirals. Though he brought good leadership during the past season, Sloan could possibly be shipped off to greener pastures.

Could this be the longest post ever? Absolutely, but we want to make sure you are completely aware of who could possible be on the opposing team this Fall, like it or not. Who do you think should stay and who should go?

Preds gain Momentum in Game 3, Fall Hard in Game 4

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The Game Ops Department really stepped up for Round 2

After A. Kostitsyn and Radulov’s curfew incident, it would be up to the rest of the team to take the reins and prove to the NHL world that, even though some of their players aren’t taking the playoffs seriously, there are others who are willing to step up and earn their place on the ice. Lady Preds has had a busy weekend, so we apologize for not having Wednesday and Friday’s games up earlier, but we shall condense them both into one post for your viewing pleasure. Here are the highlights from Game 3 and Game 4 in Nashville.

GAME 3 – WEDNESDAY NIGHT:

  • For their first game at home for Round 2 against Phoenix, Nashville’s Game Ops department really stepped up to amp up the fans. With laser etchings of the Predators logos, a catfish, the players numbers and even signatures, it was hard not to be completely mesmerized. Here’s a video of it shot by a fan:
  • With AK46 and Rads suspended for the night, two hungry bench-warmers got the chance to prove themselves on the ice Wednesday night. Those two? None other than Matt Halischuk and Jordin Tootoo. Although we wouldn’t deem Hali a bench-warmer, he has been sitting out a few games due to an ailing injury. Tootoo, on the other hand, has been warming the bench during the playoffs, so proving his worth and not losing focus was key for the enforcer. Also getting another shot on the ice was Mr. Controversy himself, Colin Wilson. Brian McGrattan, Craig Smith, Jack Hillen and Ryan Ellis topped out the scratched list.
  • David Legwand took advantage of a scoring opportunity at 8:10 in the 1st, notching his 3rd goal of the playoffs. Gabriel Bourque (2nd Assist) picked up the lone assist on Leggy’s wrister past Mike Smith.
  • Mike Fisher would counter Legwand’s goal at 9:16 of the 1st, grabbing his first goal of the playoffs thus far. Sergei Kostitsyn (1st Assist) and Martin Erat (3rd Assist) picked up the assists.
  • Nashville would hold the 2-0 lead over Phoenix in both the second and the third periods, giving the Predators their first playoff win in this series against the Coyotes. David Legwand tried pressing the Predators further with a second goal of his own, but the goal was inevitably ruled as an “intent to blow” call.
  • Nashville took control of the game defensively, with Pekka Rinne blocking all 32 shots on goal, his first shutout of the 2012 playoffs. The Predators gave the Coyotes four power play chances, but Nashville’s defense stepped up when needed and held Phoenix at bay to seal the win. Here are the four penalty offenders:
  1. Mike Fisher – 11:04 1st Period – Interference
  2. David Legwand – 15:39 1st Period – Hooking
  3. Sergei Kostitsyn – 12:59 3rd Period – Hooking
  4. Martin Erat – 14:18 3rd Period – Tripping
  • Interesting note: Although all four players took 2 minutes in the penalty box, each man collected a point in the game winner for the Preds.
  • The Predators proved that a snide incident involving two irresponsibly players would not phase them while fighting for the Stanley Cup. However, Nashville would have to come out with the same intensity on Friday to keep them from falling deeper into the hole…
GAME 4 – FRIDAY NIGHT:

  •  After a stellar performance on Wednesday night, it was obvious why Coach Barry Trotz did not put Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn back in the lineup. However, would Phoenix expect this out of Trotz and anticipate Nashville’s every move? From its outcome, it looks as if Nashville fell right into Phoenix’s trap, which was for the Predators to come out and play the exact same way on Wednesday.
  • After getting bruised and beaten on Wednesday, Matt Halischuk and Jordin Tootoo took the place of AK46 and Radulov once again, with both players showing great determination on Wednesday. Colin Wilson also came out, once again, proving his puck-handling skills are worth the ice time. Jack Hillen, Brian McGrattan, Ryan Ellis, and Craig Smith continued on the scratched list.
  • Paul Gaustad and Kyle Chipchura dropped the gloves in the first period, with the announcers originally calling Gaustad as Kevin Klein. Here is the video of the two knuckle heads:
  • Rostislav Klesla wasted no time pummeling the Predators, sending already bruised and beaten Matt Halischuk violently into the boards. Klesla was only given a minor penalty of 2 minutes, but Brendan Shanahan ruled this afternoon that Klesla will be suspended for one game (Game 5) due to his unsportsmanlike hit. Luckily, Halischuk was not seriously injured. The video of the hit is below, but you can check out Shanahan’s take on the hit here.
  • Coyotes captain Shane Doan would scored shortly after Klesla’s hit on Halischuk at 14:52, his third goal of the playoffs.
  • At one point during the third period, Nashville was able to slip the puck past Mike Smith for a goal, but in true NHL referee fashion, the goal was waved off due to an “intention to blow” call. This is the second consecutive goal that has been waved off for Nashville due to this “unbelievable” call. Although completely overrun in the first period, the Predators pressured hard in the second and third periods, but were unable to slip past the Coyotes defense.
  • Nashville out-shot Phoenix by one (25 to 24), but even with all the potential chances the Predators were given, Nashville just wasn’t able to pull one out. It also did not help that Phoenix was out to weaken the Predators, pummeling them left and right into the boards.
  • Both Nashville and Phoenix had the same amount of power play chances at three, but neither team was able to capitalize on their advantage. Here are the three Predators offenders of the first period:
  1. Jordin Tootoo – 1:30 1st Period – Interference
  2. Paul Gaustad – 10:00 1st Period – Fighting
  3. Gabriel Bourque – 15:55 1st Period – Slashing

Although coming out with an intensity that can only be described as Predators hockey on Wednesday night, Nashville’s flame completely burned out on Friday, not what the Predators needed in order to contend for the Cup. It was clear Phoenix was completely and utterly prepared for Nashville to play the exact same way they did on Wednesday, which is one of the major flaws in the way Barry Trotz coaches. Now, don’t get us wrong, Trotz is an outstanding coach… in the regular season. However, teams anticipate opponents to fall to familiarity, and Nashville did just that on Friday night. They played it safe and kept the same lineups and plays as Wednesday, giving Phoenix the completely advantage. The one change that was noted was that SK74 was bumped from the star lineup and replaced with Colin Wilson. And, a question we ask, why wasn’t Paul Gaustad in the face-offs? With the highest winning percentage, why did he not get first choice in face-offs?

We could ask questions like these all day until our faces turn blue, but what ultimately matters now is that the Predators stitch themselves back up, change it up a bit, and come out swinging in Glendale tomorrow night. With the Stanley Cup on the line, if Nashville is as hunger as they think they are, tomorrow will not even be a factor.

Until then,
GO PREDS

Predators Advance to Next Round, Eliminate Detroit 2-1

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The Predators exit the bench after eliminating the Detroit Red Wings.

The Nashville Predators and the Detroit Red Wings faced off in Game 5 last night in Smashville, with the Red Wings hanging at the mercy of the Predators in what could have been their final game in the playoffs. The Predators took Game 1  with ease, lost Game 2 at home, then pummeled the Wings back-to-back in the Joe. With Nashville holding the series 3-1, Detroit needed a “Pittsburgh/Vancouver” miracle to keep the series going, but Nashville was already looking forward to Round 2. Here are the highlights from last night’s history making game:

"All Night Long"

KEY POINTS:

  • Although day-to-day at this point, Hal Gill placed it safe and sat out yet again on the scratched list. Colin Wilson, Brian McGrattan, Chet Pickard, Jack Hillen, Matt Halischuk, and Jordin Tootoo topped out the scratched list. After making a good impression in Detroit, Ryan Ellis got another chance at playoff time, along with Craig Smith.
  • After expressing much frustration, Alexander Radulov finally sealed a playoff goal at 16:10 in the 1st Period, thanks to a nice pick from David Legwand. Leggy’s 2nd assist was the only one on Rad’s first playoff goal.
  • The 2nd Period belonged solely to the Red Wings, with Jiri Hudler slipping a backhander passed Pekka Rinne at 13:45. Hudler’s goal was his second of the playoffs.
  • After helping Radulov seal his first goal, David Legwand reminded Detroit of how well he plays against them by scoring his 2nd playoff goal just 13 seconds into the 3rd Period. Gabriel Bourque (1st assist) and Alexander Radulov (4th assist) picked up the assists on Leggy’s goal. With this goal, David Legwand has clinched the 1st Round game-winning goal two years in a row.
  • Although Leggy scored only seconds into the third period, giving Detroit plenty of opportunities to tie or even surpass the Predators, Nashville’s extraordinary defense held the desperate Red Wings back, sealing the series in Nashville’s favor and sending Detroit into an early retirement.
  • Although the Predators do better when out-shot, the Predators surpassed the Red Wings in shots on goal 25 to 22, with Pekka blocking all but one. Detroit attempted to stay under the Predators on shots, only surpassing them in the 3rd Period 8 to 7. If there was an MVP per Round, it’s clear Pekka Rinne would be the winner, hands down. Detroit had many a chance to take the lead and perhaps take the series, but Pekka Rinne and Nashville’s defense (A.K.A. Kevin Klein) thwarted any chance for advancement for the Red Wings.
  • The Predators only faced two of five penalties, with neither team able to score on the given power plays. Here are the two penalty offenders of Game 5 for Nashville:
  1. Mike Fisher – 31 seconds 1st Period – Interference
  2. Brandon Yip – 18:26 1st Period – Goalkeeper Interference

Reaching an outstanding 112 decibels, it was clear the fans were happy with the end result last night in the Bridgestone Arena as the Nashville Predators knocked off the Detroit Red Wings in the Quarterfinal Round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs. This is the third time in the past sixteen post-seasons the Detroit Red Wings have failed to reach the second round of the playoffs, even more reason for the Predators to celebrate.

As they say, third time’s the charm, as this is the third meeting between these two teams during the post-season, with Detroit knocking out Nashville in both 2004 and 2008. Last night was little brother’s turn to finally surpass big brother and how sweet it was.

The Predators will now take a nice hiatus while the rest of the league continues to knock one another out, but Nashville will ultimately face the winner of the Chicago/Phoenix game.

Until then,
GO PREDS.

(Photo courtesy of John Russell/NHLI via Getty Images)

GO PREDS

Colin Wilson’s Iffy Future with the Nashville Predators

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Colin's a pretty popular player, but that isn't enough for Trotz to put him in the lineup.

The Predators post season is quickly rolling upon us, and for Colin Wilson, this post season is starting to look vaguely familiar to last year’s…

Colin Wilson has performed well for the Nashville Predators since being picked 1st (7th overall) in the 2008 NHL Draft, first hitting the ice under the franchise on October 29, 2009. There’s nothing wrong with Wilson’s stats, that’s not what’s keeping his future on the rocks. Although his stats were a little rough his rookie year, after spending a year with Nashville’s farm team, the Milwaukee Admirals, Colin turned his play around, scoring 16 goals last season and claiming 18 assists. Although not nearly as outstanding as say, David Legwand or Martin Erat, Colin’s still a youngster with plenty of room to grow. His stats this season have been very similar, scoring 15 goals as of late and 19 assists.

But as stated before, it’s not Colin’s lack of performance that is holding him back; It’s actually Barry Trotz. As awesome and thankful as we are to have Trotz as head coach, he does have a tendency to try and change players to fit his needs. Colin Wilson is an offensively strong player, but Trotz doesn’t see Wilson in the same light. Although he’s made some game-saving goals this season alone, Trotz and Wilson just have a hard time seeing eye-to-eye. It’s clear they’ve butted heads a few times, including last year’s post season, where Wilson didn’t even see one game during the playoffs. So far, although supposedly suffering from a groin injury, as the regular season draws to a close, it’s looking like last year’s nightmares are coming back to haunt the 22-year-old.

Colin and the Predators signed a three-year, entry-level contract back in 2009 and this summer means Wilson’s a Restricted Free Agent. The temptations of trading Wilson will be high, due to the fact that the Predators could come out on the better end of the deal. Unfortunately, under the right coach, Wilson is capable of scoring 20-25 goals in a season, which would be a wound in Nashville’s side if traded.

Fear not, Wilson fans, the regular season isn’t over yet and Trotzie may have a change of heart and get Colin back in the lineup. Also, the fact that other players are doing so well, such as Gabriel Bourque and Roman Josi, plays a factor in some players taking up the scratched list (i.e. Craig Smith and occasionally Matt Halischuk). With so many healthy, well-performing players, someone has to take a night off.

Only time (and once the post season is over and done) will we know for sure what Colin Wilson’s future with Nashville will amount to. Rumors of Nashville possibly working a trade out with the Winnipeg Jets (Colin’s hometown) have been floating around, but Nashville will take whatever gives them the best outcome, as well.

The Predators finish up the regular season with two games at home on Tuesday and Thursday, and the last game of the season against the Avalanche in Denver. It’s iffy if Colin will make the lineup in these last three games, but stranger things have happened. We hope to be proven wrong, but faith is in Trotzie.

Until then,
GO PREDS.

(Photo credit: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Where has Jordin Tootoo’s Passion Gone?

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Tootoo salutes the Nashville crowd after defeating the Chicago Blackhawks.

There’s no doubting who the most recognizable Nashville Predator is. Although Shea Weber, Ryan Suter, Mike Fisher and Pekka Rinne are pretty familiar faces, there’s one player that everyone – even someone who’s never seen the Predators play – recognizes instantly: Jordin Tootoo.

Maybe it’s because he’s Nashville’s go-to fighter. Or, maybe, it’s because his last name is the same as his number (easiest player to remember). Either way, Jordin Tootoo is as popular as the day he joined the team back in the 2003-04 season. From the get-go, Toots was a born fighter, trying to make a name for himself in the league the best way he knew how. As the first Inuit hockey player to be drafted into the National Hockey League, Jordin Tootoo needed to be memorable. Oh, how far he’s come in these last eight years.

We won’t delve into Tootoo’s past (you have the ‘Tootoo on 2’ segments for that), but if you aren’t aware, Nashville’s Right Wing as fought a few demons in his young life, including alcohol abuse and his overall appearance and demeanor to the rest of the hockey world. Although loved and admired in Nashville as a strong community leader, the rest of the hockey world still see him as an inconsiderate punk of a player, not fit for society.

Despite these trials and tribulations, Jordin Tootoo’s passion for the game has never faltered, always keeping his game a top priority. After taking a step back to reflect and making the decision for rehab last season, Jordin Tootoo has not only improved mentally, but physically as well. He quickly surpassed his career-highs early in the season with 29 points and 23 assists this season. With so much tenacity and velocity, where did his passion suddenly fizzle out?

Jordin Tootoo’s last goal with the Predators was on December 28th at home against the Minnesota Wild, where the Predators won 2-1 in a shootout. Toots has accumulated many assists since then, with his last recorded assist on February 28th against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh. Since then, Jordin has seemed to be on the iffy side, making horrible passing mistakes and tacking up foolish penalties along the way.

Even though he one of the faces of the Nashville Predators, that one factor won’t save you from the bench and Jordin Tootoo found himself scratched last Saturday against the Winnipeg Jets, his first healthy scratch since, well, we can’t even give you an exact date. With younger guys such as Gabriel Bourque and Ryan Ellis playing with level heads and making cleaner, more accurate plays, Tootoo’s inconsistency had no room for ice time. That, and the recent return of Russian phenom, Alexander Radulov meant someone would be taking a seat in the press box.

Although he was back on the ice the next night against the Chicago Blackhawks, it was clear his frustration got the best of him, taking on the 6’2″ Left Wing, Brandon Bollig. Before the game, Tootoo had expressed his frustration of being scratched to the local news media, but due to his unfortunate loss to the Blackhawk, Toots will now find himself on the scratched list even more. During the fight, Bollig clocked Tootoo in the ear, causing it to bleed. Although we do not know the details of his injury, it was announced that he has an upper-body injury due to the punching match.

Since late January, Jordin Tootoo has been slowly losing steam, and last night’s fight looked as if he were merely trying to show off, not necessarily fight Bollig for a particular reason. There usually always an explaination for Tootoo’s fights, like this one, for example:


Toots took on Mark Fistric on January 5th in Dallas, their first meeting since Fistric put Shea Weber on the IR list with a concussion.

Whether it be an issue involving his personal life, or simply a fluke in his game, Jordin Tootoo has been suffering as of late, and both fans and opposing teams are starting to take notice. Depending on the severity of his upper-body injury, Jordin Tootoo could either spend the remainder of this regular season on the scratched list, or he could end up playing tomorrow against St. Louis.

We love Jordin Tootoo just as much as the next Predators fan, but it was about time someone brought to light the subject that everyone has been whispering about. Rumors of what has slowed Tootoo down have been circulating amongst the fans and others, but until the truth is presented directly from Jordin’s mouth, we won’t go into details of what those rumors were.

We don’t have any doubt Toots will rejoin the Predators organization next season, but hopefully the remainder of the regular season and playoff series will bring back the all-familiar Jordin Tootoo we all have come to love.

Until then,
GO PREDS.

(Photo credit of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)