SB Nation - Jerred Smithson

Game 33 Preview: Jackets in tough against the Preds

Mike MacLean — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 20:08:16 -0000

by Carlos Osorio - ASSOCIATED PRESS

Every year I always seem to say this: those damned Preds! Nashville comes to town for the first time this season, after going 2-0 so far against the Jackets in Nashville. The Jackets have dug themselves in a hole whereby they have to win games from here out, plain and simple. They play in the best division in hockey so intra-division games are crucial.

Some lineup changes of note- Chimmer moves up with Vermmy and Nasher, and there's a new line of Modin, Brass and Torres. That one sounds interesting, a little bit of everything. With Dorsett out with a broken hand, Murray goes back into the lineup on the checking unit with Sammy and Boller. Mase gets the start against Rinne.

I can't stress the importance of these games. The Jackets desperately need to go on a winning streak, why not start tonight?

Fearless Prediction: A win, please.

Game Time: 7:00pm ET

Opponent's Blog: On the Forecheck

Game Page: Predators vs Blue Jackets Coverage

TSN Preview: Predators vs Blue Jackets Preview

TV: FSN Ohio

Radio: WBNS-AM (1460); WWCD-FM (101.1)

More after the jump...

From the Columbus Dispatch:

A meeting of polar opposites: The Blue Jackets are a skilled club that lacks resiliency and on-ice cohesion; the Predators make up for a lack of high-end talent with immense resolve. The previous two meetings, both in Nashville, ended in 4-3 shootout wins for the Predators. The Blue Jackets won all three meetings in Nationwide Arena last season.

Jackets Links:

Columbus Blue Jackets / Columbus Blue Jackets Schedule

Columbus Blue Jackets Roster / Columbus Blue Jackets Stats

Here are the lineups for tonight's tilt:

Columbus Blue Jackets

Jason Chimera	Antoine Vermette	Rick Nash
Kristian Huselius	R.J. Umberger	Jakub Voracek
Andrew Murray	Samuel Pahlsson	Jared Boll
Fredrik Modin	Derick Brassard	Raffi Torres

Fedor Tyutin	Anton Stralman
Mike Commodore	Jan Hejda
Kris Russell	Marc Methot

Steve Mason

Mathieu Garon

EXTRA: Michael Blunden, Mathieu Roy

INJURED: Rostislav Klesla, Derek Dorsett

Nashville Predators

Steve Sullivan	Jason Arnott	Martin Erat
Jerred Smithson	David Legwand	Joel Ward
Patric Hornqvist	Marcel Goc	J.P. Dumont
Wade Belak	Dave Scatchard	Ryan Jones

Shea Weber	Ryan Suter
Dan Hamhuis	Kevin Klein
Alexander Sulzer	Francis Bouillon

Pekka Rinne

Dan Ellis

Game 31: Jackets take on the Preds in Nashville

Mike MacLean — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:01:17 -0000

by Jay LaPrete - AP

View full size photo »

This is a good day. I just had a fantastic day at work, the Jackets are coming off a huge win last night, where they looked like the team they should be. Mase was stellar, let's see if Garon can turn his game around tonight against those damned Predators. The Preds definitely have the Jackets number, especially in Nashville. I look for a typical Jackets/Preds game tonight, one with tight checking, maybe a scrap or two (if our guys have the green light to do so) and some timely goals. A score of 1-0 or 2-1 could happen.

The Preds are one of those teams that always gets it done, no matter who is on the ice. I credit GM David Poile and coach Barry Trotz for that. I would love for the kind of long-term consistency from Howson and Hitch that those two gentleman have supplied. Pekka Rinne is the straw that stirs the drink in Nashville. In my opinion he is the future of Finnish goaltending. Backstrom and Kipper are the top dogs now, but Rinne will be a great goaltender for a long time. Add to that a fun rivalry with Steve Mason, and we could be seeing a genuine goaltending battle year-in and year-out between these clubs.

The Jackets aren't making any major lineup changes with the exception of Garon getting the start. The line of Chimmer, Umby and Jake looked dangerous on almost every shift last night, and I look for them to continue that tonight. One guy who really needs to step it up is Rick Nash. Even last night, to me he was the guy who looked the worst. He was committing turnovers, and I think he is really pressing. Seemingly every time he had the puck in the offensive zone he was going with the slapper, very unlike the Captain. I would like to see he and Brass play together for a bit to see if that will spark him. Vermmy doesn't seem to be the right fit for Nasher.

Fearless Prediction: The run of bad play in Nashville has to end sometime right? Jackets win, Chimmer continues his hot streak.

Game Time: 8:00pm ET

Opponent's Blog: On the Forecheck

Game Page: Blue Jackets vs Predators coverage

TSN Preview: Blue Jackets vs Predators Preview

TV: FSN Ohio

Radio: WBNS-AM (1460); WWCD-FM (101.1)

More after the jump...

From the Columbus Dispatch:

Gaylord Entertainment Center. Sommet Center. Nashville Arena. Doesn't matter what it's named, it's a house of horrors for the Blue Jackets, who are 0-10-2 in Nashville since April 3, 2006. The Jackets blew leads of 1-0 and 2-1 and lost 4-3 in a shootout Nov. 21 in Nashville.

Jackets Links:

Columbus Blue Jackets / Columbus Blue Jackets Schedule

Columbus Blue Jackets Roster / Columbus Blue Jackets Stats

Here are the lineups for tonight's tilt:

Columbus Blue Jackets

Kristian Huselius	Antoine Vermette	Rick Nash
Jason Chimera	R.J. Umberger	Jakub Voracek
Andrew Murray	Samuel Pahlsson	Jared Boll
Raffi Torres	Derick Brassard	Derek Dorsett

Fedor Tyutin	Anton Stralman
Mike Commodore	Jan Hejda
Kris Russell	Marc Methot

Mathieu Garon

Steve Mason

EXTRA: Mike Blunden, Mathieu Roy, Derek MacKenzie

INJURED: Fredrik Modin, Rostislav Klesla

Nashville Predators

Steve Sullivan	Jason Arnott	Martin Erat
Jerred Smithson	David Legwand	Joel Ward
Jordin Tootoo	Marcel Goc	J.P. Dumont
Ryan Jones	Cal O'Reilly	Patric Hornqvist

Shea Weber	Ryan Suter
Francis Bouillon	Alexander Sulzer
Kevin Klein	Dan Hamhuis

Pekka Rinne

Dan Ellis

It's time to vote: Nashville Predators MVP, 1st Quarter

Dirk Hoag — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:36:09 -0000

More photos » by Mark Humphrey - AP

The Nashville Predators have gotten significant contributions from a number of players so far - but which of them deserves to be named the team MVP for the first quarter of the season?

Browse more photos »

The nominations are in, so it's time to vote, Predators fans - who is your team MVP for the 1st Quarter of this 2009-10 season? Follow after the jump for the nominations, then log your vote below...

Francis Bouillon

#51 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-8

Weight: 196

Born: Oct 17, 1975

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Francis Bouillon	21	1	2	3	-8	12	1	0	0	0	25	4.0

HartnellsMop: "without him, our D as a whole is nowhere near what it is now. JP’s play-making is certainly missed when he’s out, but i shutter to think how terrible our blueline would be if Klein and Hammer had to still be paired up."

J.P. Dumont

#71 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 219

Born: Apr 01, 1978

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - J.P. Dumont	14	3	12	15	2	6	0	0	0	0	34	8.8

Gover: "as JP Dumont goes, this team goes. Not only is he the points leader, but when he was out, they looked lost. He may not wear a C or an A on his chest but, more than anyone else, this is HIS team."

Lil cutie: "We are 9-3-1 in games that he has participated in, 8-0-1 when he has scored a point. He has averaged over a point per game; no one else on the team comes close to that scoring rate. There is no way that the goal-starved Predators would be over .500 without his offensive contribution."

KentS: "No doubt he’s the playmaker. Take a look at how hard other teams go after him and try to check him relentlessly."

Hockey Hillbilly: "At the start of a season of surprising performances (Smithson, Bouillon and Hornqvist among them), steady but inventive J.P. Dumont stands tall. Joel Ward embodies Predator grit but Dumont gets the job done."

Cody Franson

#32 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-5

Weight: 214

Born: Aug 08, 1987

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Cody Franson	15	2	3	5	3	6	0	0	1	0	28	7.1

Preds On The Glass: "He has steadily laid claim to the 6th D spot to the point that Sulzer is going to receive a charity start from Trotz. Franson’s offense was not questioned in the preseason but his defense was and now he is logging important minutes and not looking out of place in tough situations. I think he is probably here to stay."

Pekka Rinne

#35 / Goalie / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-5

Weight: 206

Born: Nov 03, 1982

	GP	MIN	W	L			GA	GAA	SA	SV	SV%	SO
2009 - Pekka Rinne	14	780	9	4			31	2.38	361	330	.914	2

Gover: "Rinne has finally provided stability in net and the #’s in his past 8 games are astounding."

Sam Page: "The team has a negative goal differential, and the positive record seems to be the product of Rinne keeping the game close late. He’s clutch."

Jerred Smithson

#25 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-3

Weight: 204

Born: Feb 04, 1979

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Jerred Smithson	21	4	0	4	3	18	0	2	1	0	15	26.7

whatthepuck: "He has scored four goals in 20 games, which already matches his total goals scored for the entire 08-09 season. He’s still great on the penalty kill, especially when paired with Joel Ward. And I honestly think the fact that he’s playing on the second line has given him a huge mental boost, helping his overall game. I have seen no one that compares to him in terms of off-season improvement. He used his summer wisely and is now standing out, at age 30, among a team with many younger players. This speaks volumes to his work ethic and dedication to the team and the sport."

Ryan Suter

#20 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 194

Born: Jan 21, 1985

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Ryan Suter	21	2	8	10	1	14	1	0	0	0	22	9.1

Space Weed Says: "He’s played well, he’s contributed offensively and has worn an A on his jersey during Jason Arnott and Shea Weber’s abscences from the lineup."

Joel Ward

#29 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 220

Born: Dec 02, 1980

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Joel Ward	19	3	6	9	-1	6	2	0	1	0	37	8.1

Poiju: "For being one of the most consistent and motivated players throughout the first quarter."

Shea Weber

#6 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-4

Weight: 230

Born: Aug 14, 1985

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Shea Weber	19	5	7	12	0	4	3	0	1	0	53	9.4

Sam Page: "plays significantly more ice time than any of the other players above... Webs has played good defense as usual and is tied for the team’s goal lead as a defenseman!"

Poll

Who is the Nashville Predators MVP for the 1st Quarter of the season?

Francis Bouillon

8 votes

J.P. Dumont

20 votes

Cody Franson

1 votes

Pekka Rinne

44 votes

Jerred Smithson

10 votes

Ryan Suter

3 votes

Joel Ward

5 votes

Shea Weber

14 votes

105 votes | Poll has closed

Game 20 Preview: New Jersey Devils @ Nashville Predators - 11/19/2009

John Fischer — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:00:12 -0000

by Matt Slocum - AP

Zach Parise and his shots were well covered by defenders all night against Philadelphia. Can he break free into space in Nashville tonight? (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

View full size photo »

The Time: 8 PM EST

The Broadcasting Info: MSG+ for the TV; 660 AM WFAN for the radio

The Matchup: The New Jersey Devils (14-5-0) @ the Nashville Predators (10-8-1)

The Last Devils Game: The New Jersey Devils went into Philadelphia with 9 straight road wins and 8 straight wins overall and got outplayed by the Flyers. A late consolation goal led to a flattering 3-2 score; but from where I stood, the Devils definitely earned that loss.

The Last Predators Game: The Nashville Predators took on the San Jose Sharks and more than held their own against the Western Conference leaders last night. Their checking line had a big night, Pekka Rinne was solid in net, and they overcame the Sharks 4-3. Dirk Hoag has recapped the game at On the Forecheck, complete with a wonderful table of even strength statistics.

The Goal: Stay calm. The Devils had a long winning streak broken on Monday, getting out played by a Philadelphia team that was able to get to Brodeur's crease with ease and prevent Devils to get right in front of Ray Emery. Perhaps doing better on around the crease in both ends will help. It's what the Devils worked on practice on Tuesday according to Tom Gulitti. But I feel keeping a level head is more crucial. Tonight, they will take on a team who has won 7 of their last 9 and just beat the top team in the West largely due to a power play that has otherwise been miserable. It may be easy to start getting frustrated or play with a little more desperation in an attempt to make a statement or prevent a slump. I feel that could be counter-productive against a team that has to be feeling good and playing well. The Devils have come from behind in so many of their recent wins by not getting frustrated within the game while looking to work harder on the next shift. That was the key to their success and they can get back to doing that Nashville. Only if they stay calm, in my opinion.

Read on for a guess at lines, some further thoughts, and some insight into the Nashville Predators as Dirk Hoag of On the Forecheck answers some question about the team he supports.

The recent big news with respect to the lineup is that the Devils have sent Cory Murphy down to Lowell and have called up Tyler Eckford. The Devils have called up Matthew Corrente earlier this month, so one of the two Devils' top defenseman prospects will be in tonight's game. Corrente has been highly regarded in the Devils' system since being drafted in the first round in 2006, tonight could be his NHL debut to see how he's developed. Eckford has had the hot hands in Lowell, with 2 goals and 7 assists in 3 games last week. Eckford has grown like wildfire since being a seventh round draft pick in 2004, putting up plenty of points in the CCHA before joining Lowell. With Murphy sent down, the Devils can see how Eckford could do in a similar role as an offensive defenseman.

Either way, in the comments to Steve's Murphy-down, Eckford-up post, I explained why I thought Murphy was sent down. Regardless of who gets their first NHL game against Nashville, the Devils' current top four defensemen will have to carry the majority of minutes yet again. Andy Greene, Colin White, Mike Mottau, and Bryce Salvador had unimpressive-at-best games in Philly. If those four can not panic in their own end, not allow Nashville forwards to get behind them, and steady themselves tonight, then it'll go a long way towards a good result for New Jersey.

In any case, here is my guess for the Devils' line up. As usual, expect the forward lines to shift during the game. With respect to who will be in or out, your best bet is to check out Gulitti or Chere later in the day. Again, this is only a guess:

Zach Parise - Travis Zajac - Jamie Langenbrunner
Patrik Elias - Dainius Zubrus - Niclas Bergfors
Brian Rolston - Tim Sestito - David Clarkson
Matt Halischuk - Rod Pelley - Ilkka Pikkarainen

Andy Greene - Bryce Salvador
Colin White - Mike Mottau
Mark Fraser - Matthew Corrente

Martin Brodeur
Yann Danis

While Eckford was just called up, I'm guessing Corrente will get to make his debut as he's been up with the team already and have been practicing to get himself acclimated to the team. I'm also guessing Jacques Lemaire will mix up his wingers and give Ilkka Pikkarainen a shot since the Devils may not necessarily need a big, fighting (?) dude like Peters tonight.

Anyway, let's look at the Nashville Predators. Do you know much about the Predators other than that they beat the San Jose Sharks last night? Did you know that head coach Barry Trotz aired a beef about the arena clock operator at the Sommet Center after the win (via Puck Daddy)? Do you know who is the highest played player on the Nashville Predators? (Just for fun, guess without looking up CapGeek - I think you'll be amazed at the answer) Well, I had some other questions about how the Predators have been doing and the man to ask about the Predators is Dirk Hoag of On the Forecheck. I was able to ask him five questions about the Predators and tonight's game. Keep in mind the questions came before

Question #1. The big story with Nashville on the surface is their difficulty in scoring goals. Prior to the San Jose game, they have scored only 39 goals in 18 games (2.11 average - second lowest in the league) and their power play is dead last at a 11.6% success rate. Yet, the Predators average 30.8 shots per game, the tenth best average in the league. While it's clear to me the Predators are getting shots on net, what has prevented Nashville from scoring goals so far this season?

DH: There are a few reasons for that discrepancy - the first is obviously a lack of finishers, the guys who can take that extra half-second to pick their spot when shooting. The Preds have only had their top line playing together for 3 games now, and the replacement personnel just don't provide that skill. Also, the team is playing a style that dictates firing the puck on net more often and having supporting forwards crash the net for rebounds, rather than circle around and try to set up a perfect shot. As for the power play, that's been a persistent problem for the last three seasons now, and although they scored twice against San Jose on Tuesday, nobody's breaking out the party balloons quite yet.

Question #2. One team stat that I'm sure you're thrilled with are team's penalties. The Predators average only 9.6 minutes per game and have taken a total of only 158 minutes; leading the league in both categories. Why are the Predators so disciplined this season?

DH: Barry Trotz has mentioned quite often in recent days that staying out of the box has been a major focus with this team. He's emphasized "checking with your feet", in other words, having players keep hustling to stay with a play rather than tail off and have to hook or hold an opponent. The team is still playing tough hockey in terms of initiating contact and following through on body checks, but avoiding penalties is key. One interesting point there is the return of Martin Gelinas to the organization as Director of Player Development; when he played with the Preds in 2007-8, he is credited with mentoring Jordin Tootoo during his most disciplined and productive season, so perhaps he's providing some advice on that front as well.

Question #3. Let's talk goalies. Dan Ellis and Pekka Rinne have been splitting time so far this season, though Rinne has the better numbers so far. Does this mean that Rinne has - or should be - the team's starter; or do you not mind the two goalies splitting time?

DH: I don't mind having both split the duty, although the balance does appear to be tipping in Rinne's favor. Both are solid NHL goaltenders, and since they are in the final year of their contracts, each is motivated to make an impact whenever they get the chance. With the compressed schedule this season, all teams will need reliable depth in goal, and the Preds are set up as well as anybody on that front.

Question #4. Among the Predator players, Shea Weber and Ryan Suter lead the Nashville defense in terms of minutes. While they are certainly impressive players to an outsider like me, who on the Predators should the Devils look out for that hasn't necessarily got the attention (or credit) they deserve?

DH: Up front, the two guys you'll want to watch for are Patric Hornqvist, a second-year Swede who battles around the net like a right-handed Tomas Holmstrom, and Jerred Smithson, a veteran who is usually focused on checking and PK work, but is clicking on a line with Joel Ward and David Legwand. Smitty is a hard worker, and unexpectedly ranks 3rd among Nashville forwards with 4 goals already. On defense, Kevin Klein has grown into a Top 4 role and is playing well after a rocky start, and also look for Cody Franson, a rookie who is getting work on the power play.

Question #5. Lastly, what is your prediction for tonight's game?

DH: I don't usually do predictions, but I really like the way the Preds are playing right now. I'll go with 3-2 Nashville.

Big thanks to Dirk for his responses. As usual, I disagree with his prediction; but he is right that the team is loaded with hard working, under-the-radar players. They got two solid goaltenders; while the Devils may see Dan Ellis tonight since Rinne got the San Jose game, Nashville won't be weaker in net.

That their power play was successful against San Jose is a real interesting note, perhaps the start of something big. With respect to special teams play, that Nashville takes so few penalties is a big plus in their favor; a power play unit that finally just got a spark could really make them more dangerous of an opponent along with being rarely shorthanded. After all, a little confidence can turn a slumping part of a team's game right around - and Nashville's offense has clearly been in a lull this season. The Devils would do well to remember that going into tonight's game. As well as staying calm on the ice will minimize the number man advantages the Predators will have to get confident on their power play and on offense in general.

Thanks for reading. Steve will have the GameThread up later today. As usual, please feel free to use this post comment about tonight's game as well as any new news with either team up until the GameThread begins. If you can, check out the Devils' viewing party at the Black Bear Bar in Hoboken. I unfortunately won't be able to make it, so I'll comment during the game here. Go Devils!

Shutdown line outscores San Jose's big guns as Predators top Sharks 4-3

Dirk Hoag — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:31:53 -0000

More photos » by Mark Humphrey - AP

about 1 month ago: Nashville Predators center Jerred Smithson, left, celebrates with defenseman Kevin Klein (8) after Smithson scored a goal against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Browse more photos »

Charged with trying to shut down San Jose's top line of Joe Thornton, Dany Heatley and Ryan Clowe, the Nashville Predators line of David Legwand, Joel Ward and Jerred Smithson instead lit up the scoreboard in a 4-3 victory over the top team in the Western Conference. Legwand and Ward each had a goal and two assists, while Smithson added his 4th goal of the season. Those three were the only Nashville forwards to finish on the positive side of the Plus/Minus stat as well, as the team held on for the 7th win in their last nine games.

After the jump we've got the recap and advanced even-strength statistics...

The key to tonight's win, remarkably enough, was special teams. Nashville's power play, which has been a sore spot all season, got them the early lead when Steve Sullivan converted a 5-on-3 advantage in the 1st period to put the Preds in front 1-0 at the 13:19 mark. Sully simply set up in the faceoff dot to the right of San Jose goaltender Thomas Greiss and one-timed a crossing pass from J.P. Dumont into a wide-open net for the score.

Shortly thereafter, however, it was a pair of ex-Predators who tied the game back up; while Nashville was finishing up a 5-on-4 advantage left over after the Sullivan goal, Jed Ortmeyer stormed down the right wing and fed the puck in front to a streaking Scott Nichol, who tipped it in for his first goal of the season.

Less than two minutes later, though, the Preds answered back. A 2-on-1 break got started when Ward tipped the puck out of the Nashville zone. Legwand carried through center ice into the San Jose end, and fed Smithson for his 4th goal, tying his output from all of last season in just his 18th game.

In the second period, it was once again the power play that made a difference for the Preds; with Dan Boyle off for tripping J.P. Dumont, Ward tipped a Ryan Suter point shot to extend the Nashville lead to 3-1. It was Ward's third goal of the season and his second on the power play.

Things really got rolling just a few minutes later, as persistent forechecking led to another Nashville score; Ward dug the puck out of the corner deep in the San Jose zone, fed it Legwand in the circle, and a quick shot put the Preds up 4-1, whereupon the crowd immediately started chanting for Frosties (which tickets are good for when the Predators score 5 goals at home).

From there on, it was an issue of holding on; the Sharks' top line with Thornton and Heatley often created dangerous chances, and they cashed in with 41 seconds left in the second period to close the gap to 4-2.

In the third, the Predators killed off a Holding penalty to Suter midway through the period, and seemed on the smooth road to victory until the final minute. With the San Jose goalkeeper pulled, the Sharks capitalized on the 6-on-5 advantage with a Patrick Marleau goal to make the score 4-3 with 52 seconds left. Just then, however, there was a problem with the game clock, which led to a few minutes of delay before the game continued. When Nashville iced the puck with 3 seconds left, the clock ran down to 0 again, resulting in another delay before they could put the time back up and resume play. While the Preds rode it out and sealed the victory, head coach Barry Trotz ripped the off-ice officials in his post-game press conference, saying they basically gave San Jose two extra opportunities to rest up their best players and take their shot at tying the game.

Fortunately for Nashville, those technical gaffes didn't cost them on the scoreboard or in the standings.

Pekka Rinne was excellent in net for the Predators, making 29 saves on 32 San Jose shots; none of the goals against were particularly soft, and he did a good job stuffing a number of dangerous opportunities. He's now won six of his last seven starts.

Having opened their 5-game home stand with consecutive victories, attention can now turn to the New Jersey Devils, who bring the Eastern Conference's best record into the Sommet Center on Thursday...

When considering the Even Strength statistics below, what jumps out once again is the relatively even distribution of ice time; since the Predators aren't taking many penalties, they can generally roll all four lines. Whenever the Thornton line came out the Legwand line responded, and there were instances where Marcel Goc got an extra shift or two that started in the defensive zone (as a backup faceoff man), but all the forwards got plenty of work.

On defense, the top pair of Weber and Suter had their hands full dealing with Thornton and Heatley, but they blocked a few shots and kept the damage to a minimum (only 1 of Heatley's 7 attempted shots forced Rinne to make a save, for example). Cody Franson continues to put up positive results in a relatively limited role, and that's the sign of a coach putting a young player in the best possible position to succeed. After some horrendous efforts during the opening weeks of the season, it would appear that three stable pairings have developed in Suter/Weber, Bouillon/Klein, and Hamhuis/Franson.

Even Strength		Individual Totals					Team Totals While Player Is On Ice
Player	Pos	EV TOI	Shots	Shts Blkd	Missed Shts	Blocks	SOG For	SOG Ag	SOG +/-	Tot SF	Tot SA	Corsi
Jason Arnott	C	14:33	2	4	0	0	7	10	-3	15	14	1
Steve Sullivan	L	13:50	0	0	1	0	5	8	-3	12	14	-2
J P Dumont	R	14:02	2	2	0	0	5	9	-4	13	13	0
David Legwand	C	17:38	1	1	1	1	7	5	2	14	19	-5
Jerred Smithson	R	15:51	0	0	0	0	5	5	0	9	17	-8
Joel Ward	R	15:54	2	1	1	1	6	4	2	9	18	-9
Martin Erat	R	10:43	0	1	1	0	9	7	2	13	11	2
Michael Santorelli	C	8:31	2	0	0	0	7	6	1	8	10	-2
Patric Hornqvist	R	10:10	3	0	0	0	8	6	2	9	10	-1
Marcel Goc	C	11:37	2	1	0	1	5	7	-2	8	12	-4
Andreas Thuresson	R	10:01	1	0	0	1	4	5	-1	7	10	-3
Jordin Tootoo	R	10:28	1	1	1	0	5	5	0	9	10	-1
Shea Weber	D	19:56	2	1	1	3	6	10	-4	13	25	-12
Ryan Suter	D	20:06	0	0	0	2	6	10	-4	10	25	-15
Kevin Klein	D	16:27	1	0	0	2	7	8	-1	13	14	-1
Francis Bouillon	D	15:25	1	0	0	1	4	9	-5	8	18	-10
Dan Hamhuis	D	17:06	1	0	0	2	15	8	7	26	12	14
Cody Franson	D	14:15	1	0	1	1	10	7	3	16	12	4

Poll

Who is your Predator of the Game?

David Legwand, GW goal, 2 assists

60 votes

Pekka Rinne, 29 saves

12 votes

Joel Ward, PP goal, 2 assists

20 votes

92 votes | Poll has closed

Carey Price's Record Tying Performance Under The Microscope

Robert L — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:14:40 -0000

Seven days ago, Chris Boyle's in depth analysis of the Canadiens goaltenders was a true eye opener on several fronts. Following Carey Price's record tying performance last night in Nashville, I asked Chris if he would put this one game under his microscope so we could all have a similar analysis on how good a game Price played. Down below, the graphs illustrate the story of Saturday's game quite clearly. Following Chris' take, there is a historical recap on where Price's marks fit in with other great one game performances in the team's history.

WHO FIRED WHAT:

In the order of shots on goal, shots blocked and missed shots.

Forwards Shots: 11 (0-0) - Steve Sullivan, 5 (0-0) - Martin Erat, 4 (1-1) - David Legwand, 4 (2-0) - Andreas Thuresson, 3 (0-0) - Michael Santorelli, 3 (1-1) - Jason Arnott, 2 (1-0) - Marcel Goc, 2 (0-3) - Jordin Tootoo, 1 (0-1) - Jerred Smithson, 1 (2-1) - Patrick Hornqvist, 1 (1-2) - Joel Ward, 1 (0-0) - J.P. Dumont

On goal: 38 / Blocked: 8 / Misses: 9

Total directed from forwards: 57

Defense Shots: 5 (0-1) - Dan Hamhuis, 4 (1-2) - Shea Weber, 4 (1-1) - Cody Franzen, 3 (0-0) - Kevin Klein, 1 (0-0) - Francis Bouillon, 0 (0-0) - Ryan Suter

On goal: 17 / Blocked: 2 / Misses: 4

Total directed by defense: 23

Team Totals:

On goal: 55 / Blocked: 10 / Misses: 13

Total directed shots by Nashville: 78

SHOT RANGE

Chris notes that of the 55 shots faced by Price, 22 were fired from a distance of 40 feet or more, another 19 came from within the 20 to 40 foot range, and 14 (including Steve Sullivan's 2 goals) came from up close, within 20 feet of the goal.

SAVE %

Price stopped all 41 shots directed at him from a distance of more than 20 feet out. Of 14 chances within the 20 foot parameter, Sullivan beat Price in close at the crease's lip and from 15 feet out on a rebound, uncovered both times.

Price faced 6 shots registered from less than 10 feet, which according to NHL.com gamelogs, is a total that Tim Thomas took 6 games to register.

Prior to Saturday's game against Montreal, Steve Sullivan had 2 goals and 3 assists in 17 games for the NHL's lowest scoring team. His 11 shots in this game bring his season total to 41.

Chris Notes:

I was reminded of Dryden while watching this game. Not because of Price's goaltending, but because I thought I saw the 6'5" Pekka Rinne engaged in his classic pose watching all the action.

In regards to the Nashville game, I found the following article at Puck Prospects.com very interesting.

In the "more shots" category, I was not surprised to find Nashville and Florida. I’ve always found something fishy about Florida’s inflated shot totals, both during the old Luongo days and more recently with Vokoun. Likewise, Nashville always seems to have a goaltender with a 0.920 save percentage (Tomas Vokoun, Chris Mason, Dan Ellis and Pekka Rinne). Though the most remarkable bias comes on the "less shots" side and is found, unsurprisingly, in New Jersey.

As soon as I saw the first period shot totals I thought of this article from Tom Awad that discussed that Nashville has a tendency to overreport shot totals. Also, Boone referenced it in his live game log when he said NHL.com had registered 17 shots, while RDS was reporting 21. It is an interesting tidbit considering the circumstance.

Also the game in question in which Price almost broke the record for shots faced was March 10, 1974. Wayne Thomas was in goal and faced 57 shots against the Penguins in a 5-4 Win (23 in the first period, 15 in the second, 19 in the third) 2 goals in the first, 1 in the next 2 periods. Gary Innes was in goal for the Pens and gave up 5 goals on 18 shots! 1st period the Habs had 8 shots and 3 goals, followed by 5 shots and 1 goal in each of the next 2 periods.

A look at Price's saves against Nashville from Chris' You Tube compilation.

HISTORY AND PRICE'S RECORD

Previous Canadiens Goalie Records:

For a historical point of view, here is a look back on other noteworthy performances by Canadiens goaltenders. For time and perspective, make use of the hyperlinks provided.

Most Shots On Goal Against - One Game: 57

March 10, 1974, Wayne Thomas in goal, in a 5-4 win against Pittsburgh.

Canadiens lineup / Penguins lineup

Most Saves - One Game: 53

November 14, 2009, Carey Price in goal, in a 2-0 Nashville win

Canadiens lineup / Predators lineup / Game Summary

March 10, 1974, Wayne Thomas in goal, in a 5-4 win against Pittsburgh.

Canadiens lineup / Penguins lineup

Most Shots On Goal - One Period: 24 (3 times)

2009 - November 14: Carey Price vs Nashville (1st), 2-0 Nashville (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Predators lineup / Game Summary

1976 - March 19: Ken Dryden vs California (1st), 4-1 Montreal (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Seals lineup Game Summary

1970 - March 15: Rogie Vachon vs Toronto (3rd) 3-3 tie (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Maple Leafs lineup/ Game Summary

Most Saves - One Period: 23 (5 times)

2009 - November 14: Carey Price vs Nashville (1st), 2-0 Nashville (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Predators lineup / Game Summary

2002 - October 26: Jeff Hackett vs Ottawa (1st), 5-3 Ottawa (stopped 23 of 23)

Canadiens lineup / Senators lineup

1993 - March 10: Andre Racicot vs Islanders (2nd), 5-1 Montreal (stopped 23 of 23)

Canadiens lineup / Islanders lineup

1976 - March 19: Ken Dryden vs California (1st), 4-1 Montreal (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Seals lineup / Game Summary

1970 - March 15: Rogie Vachon vs Toronto (3rd) 3-3 tie (stopped 23 of 24)

Canadiens lineup / Maple Leafs lineup/ Game Summary

With the performance against Nashville, Carey Price now owns or shares six Canadiens goaltending records including the two listed above.

CAREY PRICE CANADIENS' GOALTENDING RECORDS

Most Shots Faced In One Shootout: 8

October 27, 2008 vs Pittsburgh, Canadiens 4 Penguins 3 / Game Summary

Most Saves In One Shootout: 8

October 27, 2008 vs Pittsburgh, Canadiens 4 Penguins

Most Shootout Shots Faced In One Season:

22: October 27, 2008 vs Pittsburgh, Canadiens 4 Penguins

Most Shootout Saves In One Season:

18: October 27, 2008 vs Pittsburgh, Canadiens 4 Penguins

For more on this game from the Nashville Predators angle, check out On the Forecheck.

Grading the Nashville Predators: the forwards

Dirk Hoag — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:16:52 -0000

More photos » by Frederick Breedon - AP

about 1 month ago: Nashville Predators right wing Patric Hornqvist (27) shoots the puck over Dallas Stars goaltender Alex Auld, right, to score the game-winning goal during the third period of an NHL hockey game in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009. (AP Photo/Frederick Breedon)

Browse more photos »

It's been delayed a bit, but I wanted to wrap up the early-season grades for the Nashville Predators by concluding with the forwards. If you want to read about the defense and goaltending, those posts went up last week.

Let's get on with it then, how have the Preds forwards done so far?

All the detailed stats are down at the bottom for those interested; I'll keep the analysis and grades up top. Starting with the top line guys and working our way down...

Jason Arnott

#19 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-5

Weight: 220

Born: Oct 11, 1974

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Jason Arnott	9	3	2	5	0	2	1	0	0	0	34	8.8

The season started off well for the team captain, as he potted a power play goal just two minutes into the first game, and appeared to have picked up right where he left off at the end of last season, when he carried the Preds offensively down the stretch. An arm injury cost him a few games, however, and he has yet to round back into top form since returning to the lineup last Tuesday in Anaheim. One encouraging sign is that Arnott has only taken one minor penalty to date; given the team's struggles to score goals, they need to tilt the special teams balance in their favor as much as possible.

Jason Arnott's grade: B

J.P. Dumont

#71 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 219

Born: Apr 01, 1978

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - J.P. Dumont	9	3	8	11	3	4	0	0	0	0	19	15.8

When healthy, Dumont has been a dynamo, and despite missing a few games, leads the team in scoring. Some may point to his 5-point night in Ottawa as padding his stats, but since the Preds won that game 6-5 I'd say they needed every last contribution that J.P. provided. When he get knocked out of the opening game by Stephane Robidas, there was concern that Dumont might feel lingering effects for a long time, like last season when a similar in a game against Vancouver led to decreased production for weeks afterward. While a second injury has kept him out of recent games, the hope is that he returns to the lineup this week, when we can finally see the top line that was intended coming out of training camp.

J.P. Dumont's grade: A-

Steve Sullivan

#26 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-9

Weight: 173

Born: Jul 06, 1974

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Steve Sullivan	15	2	3	5	-4	2	0	0	0	0	25	8.0

Without his linemates Dumont and Arnott, Sully has struggled mightily to produce consistently so far. Often he's felt the need to stick-handle the puck through multiple defenders to create a scoring chance, which rarely works for even the best of players. What's become apparent is that rather then driving the Nashville attack, what we can hope for with Sully is that he complements Dumont and Arnott well enough to fill out a top line.

Steve Sullivan's grade: C+

Patric Hornqvist

#27 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 5-11

Weight: 186

Born: Jan 01, 1987

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Patric Hornqvist	15	3	5	8	3	8	0	0	2	0	55	5.5

Hornqvist got off to a great start filling in for Dumont on the top line, but his production has dried up lately, with just 1 goal and no assists in his last 7 games. While he's tilting the ice in the right direction in terms of Shots For & Against, he needs to finish off his opportunities more often to stay in the lineup as injured players return. That 5.5% Shooting Percentage needs to be doubled if he wants to earn a job as a Top Six winger.

Patric Hornqvist's grade: B

David Legwand

#11 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-2

Weight: 202

Born: Aug 17, 1980

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - David Legwand	15	0	4	4	-6	8	0	0	0	0	22	0.0

With 3 assists in his last 5 games, there's hope that Legwand is finally sparking to life, but it's been a very disappointing start so far. Which is worse; that Leggy is taking fewer shots per game than he ever has before, or the fact that not a single one of them has gone in the net? Often lauded as a two-way center, the offensive side of that description has dropped off the charts. He's had his power play time cut considerably, and probably the only portion of the game we can really give good credit for is on the penalty kill, where his results are decent enough.

For $5 million this year, however, Preds fans should expect much, much more. Even allowing for defensive responsibilities, Legwand should be able to produce at more than a 21-point pace.

David Legwand's Grade: D

Martin Erat

#10 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 203

Born: Aug 29, 1981

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Martin Erat	12	1	2	3	-8	10	0	0	0	0	23	4.3

If Legwand's start is mystifying, than Erat's has to be infuriating. His lone goal wasn't even intended to be a shot on net, it deflected in off a defenseman's skate. At $5.25 million this season, Preds fans should expect a whole lot more. For an exercise in anger, consult the tables below and try to determine whether you're more disappointed in his 5-on-5 or 5-on-4 work. And before we hear the excuse about his defensive assignments, just look at the disastrous Goals Against/60 below, especially when compared with Goals For.

Martin Erat's grade: D-

Joel Ward

#29 / Right Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 220

Born: Dec 02, 1980

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Joel Ward	13	2	3	5	-1	4	1	0	1	0	21	9.5

At least Joel Ward had a good reason for a slow start; groin trouble kept him out of much of training camp, and the first two games of the season. With 2 goals and 2 assists in his last 5 games, Ward is asserting himself offensively recently; we'll need to see, however, if he keeps getting good PP time once Dumont & Wilson are back in the lineup.

On the downside, Ward is a key part of a penalty killing unit which has struggled so far. With the Preds destined to be a low-scoring team once again, they need the PK to rank among the NHL elite as they usually do.

Joel Ward's grade: C+

Colin Wilson

#33 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 213

Born: Oct 20, 1989

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Colin Wilson	10	1	1	2	-1	0	0	0	0	0	14	7.1

While giving fans the occasional dazzling play, Wilson hasn't been able to translate those opportunities into goals quite yet. Expectations need to managed in his rookie season, however, as making the jump from the NCAA is especially difficult for a young player. I suspect that the best is yet to come, once the top line is reunited and Wilson can get more opportunistic matchups against 3rd- and 4th-line opponents.

Colin Wilson's grade: B

Michael Santorelli

#18 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 189

Born: Dec 14, 1985

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Michael Santorelli	10	1	1	2	-3	4	0	0	0	0	22	4.5

It's been hard to find the right spot for Santorelli within this lineup. Should he play on the wing, or at center? Can he round out a scoring line, or should he anchor a depth line instead? What the Preds are hoping is that don't have a "tweener" here, a guy who dominates the AHL but can't make an impact in the NHL. Despite having played only 4 games with Milwaukee this season, he's that team's leading goal scorer so far, but he can't seem to put the puck in the net for Nashville.

Mike Santorelli's grade: C-

Dave Scatchard

#38 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-3

Weight: 210

Born: Feb 20, 1976

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Dave Scatchard	8	0	2	2	2	4	0	0	0	0	14	0.0

He generated considerable buzz alongside Colin Wilson and Patric Hornqvist for a few games, but his main contribution has been on the defensive side of the puck; his Goals Against/60 both in 5-on-5 and the PK are best on the team, and that kind of work will certainly keep him in the lineup.

Dave Scatchard's grade: B+

Cal O`Reilly

#16 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-0

Weight: 187

Born: Sep 30, 1986

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Cal O`Reilly	6	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	5	0.0

Unlike his opportunity last season, Cal just hasn't clicked in his limited NHL work so far this year. He's doing better down at Milwaukee, but is now looking up at both Santorelli and Wilson on the depth chart. Since he has a two-way contract this season, he might not be back up in Nashville for a while.

Cal O'Reilly's grade: C-

Ryan Jones

#28 / Left Wing / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 206

Born: Jun 14, 1984

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Ryan Jones	8	0	0	0	-2	2	0	0	0	0	7	0.0

8 games and 0 points for Nashville, 5 games and 0 points for Milwaukee. What a free-fall this is, considering he just signed a new two-year contract over the summer.

Ryan Jones' grade: E

Jerred Smithson

#25 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-3

Weight: 204

Born: Feb 04, 1979

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Jerred Smithson	15	3	0	3	3	18	0	2	1	0	11	27.3

His game-winning goal against Minnesota is probably Nashville's highlight of the season so far, but to be fair we do need to ding him as the lead forward on what has been a lousy PK so far (24th in the NHL). I'll be OK with him not scoring another goal all year, if he can help lead this bunch back into the Top 10 in shorthanded play.

Jerred Smithson's grade: B-

Marcel Goc

#9 / Center / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 200

Born: Aug 24, 1983

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2009 - Marcel Goc	14	0	1	1	-2	4	0	0	0	0	17	0.0

Goc is a really interesting case; a good skater, hard worker, and decent PK man, Marcel is also a reliable faceoff man, taking many late-game draws when Nashville holds a lead. He draws raves from observers for his hockey smarts, but in the end, he doesn't put up notable results. I guess it's a matter of expectations; if all you're looking for is a 4th-line guy who won't score but can help plug some of the holes that you don't want rookies like Wilson to fill, then Goc could serve a useful purpose on this team.

Marcel Goc's grade: C+

Here are the main numbers from Behind the Net, starting with 5-on-5 play:

NAME	POS	GP	TOI/60	RATING	QUALCOMP	QUALTEAM	PTS/60	GFON/60	GAON/60	+/- per 60
Jason Arnott	C	8	14.7	1.6	0.19	0.39	2.0	2.6	2.6	0.0
Martin Erat	RW	11	14.6	-3.0	0.00	-0.25	0.4	0.4	3.4	-3.0
Steve Sullivan	C	14	14.5	-0.7	0.16	0.55	1.2	2.1	3.3	-1.2
David Legwand	C	14	14.5	-1.1	-0.06	-0.39	0.9	1.2	2.7	-1.5
Patric Hornqvist	LW	14	13.8	2.8	-0.01	0.38	2.5	3.1	1.9	1.3
J.P. Dumont	RW	9	13.4	2.3	0.11	0.06	3.0	3.0	1.5	1.5
Joel Ward	RW	12	13.2	0.6	0.14	-0.25	0.4	1.5	2.3	-0.8
Mike Santorelli	C	9	13.2	-2.8	-0.20	-0.51	0.0	0.0	3.0	-3.0
Dave Scatchard	C	7	13.0	1.4	-0.16	0.76	0.7	1.3	0.7	0.7
Colin Wilson	C	10	11.7	1.5	0.00	0.49	1.0	1.5	1.5	0.0
Cal O'Reilly	C	6	10.5	0.3	-0.05	0.63	0.0	3.8	3.8	0.0
Marcel Goc	C	13	9.5	-0.7	-0.33	0.03	0.5	1.0	2.0	-1.0
Jerred Smithson	C	14	9.4	0.9	-0.24	-0.46	0.5	1.4	1.4	0.0
Ryan Jones	LW	8	8.1	-0.9	-0.59	-0.32	0.0	0.0	1.9	-1.9

And on the power play (5-on-4 only), we have:

NAME	POS	GP	TOI/60	GOALS/60	Assist/60	GFON/60
Jason Arnott	C	9	3.7	1.8	0.0	1.8
Steve Sullivan	C	15	3.3	0.0	1.2	2.4
Patric Hornqvist	LW	15	3.2	0.0	0.0	2.5
Martin Erat	RW	12	2.7	0.0	1.9	1.9
J.P. Dumont	RW	9	2.0	0.0	9.8	9.8
Joel Ward	RW	13	2.0	2.3	0.0	4.6
Cal O'Reilly	C	6	2.0	0.0	0.0	0.0
Colin Wilson	C	10	1.8	0.0	0.0	3.3
David Legwand	C	15	1.5	0.0	0.0	5.5
Mike Santorelli	C	10	1.3	0.0	0.0	4.5
Ryan Jones	LW	8	1.0	0.0	0.0	0.0

And lastly, the 4-on-5 Penalty Kill:

NAME	POS	GP	TOI/60	GAON/60
Jerred Smithson	C	15	2.31	13.8
Joel Ward	RW	13	2.04	11.3
David Legwand	C	15	1.82	6.61
Dave Scatchard	C	8	1.42	0
Marcel Goc	C	14	1.38	9.33
Martin Erat	RW	12	0.71	0

Monday's notes: A Predators prospect lights the lamp, while a veteran grinds out a solid career

Dirk Hoag — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:19:45 -0000

More photos » by Gus Ruelas - AP

Nashville Predators right wing Jerred Smithson has earned a steady NHL job due to hard work and dedication, writes David Boclair in the Nashville City Paper this morning.

Browse more photos »

It's going to be a busy week for the Nashville Predators as they wrap up their current road trip with games in San Jose tomorrow and St. Louis on Thursday, before returning to home ice for a matchup with Montreal Saturday night.

Until we get back to the action, then, it's time for your morning news and notes. We've got the NHLPA burning itself to the ground, Hockey Hall of Fame inductions coming up this evening (6:00 Central on the NHL Network), and word that one Nashville Predators prospect (a forward, no less!) is tearing up the junior hockey circuit...

Predators News

2009 Entry Draft - Update on Major Junior Forwards - Hockey Or Die!
Jonathan Willis runs down the list of top-scoring junior hockey forwards who were drafted this year. At the very top of the list is Taylor Beck, the 3rd round pick of your Nashville Predators.

Smithson plots career path with longevity and attitude - Nashville City Paper
David Boclair discusses Jerred Smithson's run with Nashville, and sets it within the context of how the Predators have approached free agency over the years.

Preds On The Glass: Adrian Dater and David Rogers on Tonight's POTG Radio
You read the headline, Denver Post columnist Adrian Dater will be a guest on tonight's Preds On the Glass podcast.

The View from 111: A Proposal for Dealing With Head Shots
Mark has a plan for dealing with head shots that is far too standardized and based in common sense to ever be implemented, unfortunately.

What The Puck: 11/7/09 - Nashville at Los Angeles: W 3-1
Rachel reports on Saturday's win in Los Angeles, as she followed the Preds on vacation.

Americans turn in strong effort in Deutschland Cup - USATODAY.com
Kevin Allen writes about the US Men's Select team finishing second at the Deutschland Cup over the weekend. Preds assistant GM Paul Fenton was an assistant coach under Peter Laviolette.

Today in Awkward NHL photos - Barry Melrose Rocks
An amusing look at Francis Bouillon's goal from Saturday...

Around the NHL

CBCSports.ca - The battle raging inside the NHLPA
A lengthy, but fascinating piece on the train wreck that is the NHLPA, by Elliotte Friedman

The plus/minus rating - Nashville Predators Examiner
Jim Diamond responds to a reader's request to explain the Plus/Minus stat...

Solving Escrow - Hockey Or Die!
An interesting notion on how to resolve the issue of escrow, which is a sore point for many players in the current CBA.

Rangers Analysis: With Drury and Dubinsky out, Rangers look for options - Blueshirt Banter
The New York Rangers lost two key forwards to injury in Saturday's game at Calgary.

Canes Now - Ward to stay in hospital; Canes mull options
As if things weren't already bad enough for Carolina, goaltender Cam Ward's leg was cut by Rick Nash's skate. He'll be out of the lineup for an extended period of time.

All Habs: Hockey Night in Canada Takes Interest in All Habs' Feud
Allan Walsh, an NHL player agent who posts frequently on Twitter, went over the line by pointing out Montreal goalie Carey Price's disappointing win/loss record last night. Walsh's client is Montreal's other goalie, Jaroslav Halak.

Lindsay hails Yzerman induction - NHL.com
Some perspective on Steve Yzerman's Hall of Fame induction from "Terrible" Ted Lindsay.

GMs meeting preview, plus latest on Peter Forsberg and Islanders' plans in net - ESPN
Pierre LeBrun speculates that when the NHL general managers meet this week, one item they'll discuss is whether to get rid of the trapezoid behind the goal line; I, for one, am totally in favor of getting rid of that gimmicky rule.

Pekka Rinne's 22 saves lead Nashville to 2-0 win over Chicago

Dirk Hoag — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 03:45:10 -0000

More photos » by Mark Humphrey - AP

about 1 month ago: Nashville Predators center Steve Sullivan (26) dives for the puck as Chicago Blackhawks right wing Andrew Ebbett (15) skates down the ice in the second period of an NHL hockey game in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

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Pekka Rinne followed up a strong relief performance last night by shutting out the Chicago Blackhawks on 22 shots as the Nashville Predators took a much-needed 2-0 victory. Joel Ward's first goal of the season (on the power play, no less) put the Preds ahead during the 2nd period, and Jerred Smithson added a shorthanded empty-net goal with just seconds remaining in the third to close out the win.

After the jump, the video highlights...

While Chicago seemed to establish some good pressure as the Predators tried to hold the lead, a turning point came midway through the final period, as Shea Weber rocked Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane twice, re-asserting Nashville's defensive presence and turning momentum in the Preds favor.

Notably, the Nashville penalty kill went 5-for-5 on the night, and with the power play going 1-for-6, the special teams continue to improve at a slow, but steady pace.

Martin Erat was a late scratch for the Preds, with what has been termed a "lower body injury"

Poll

Who is your Predator of the Game?

Pekka Rinne, 22 saves, shutout

69 votes

Joel Ward, PP goal, 2 blocked shots

10 votes

Jerred Smithson, SH goal, 5:52 PK TOI

5 votes

84 votes | Poll has closed

Jerred Smithson's shorthanded goal lifts Nashville past Minnesota, 4-3

Dirk Hoag — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:07:58 -0000

More photos » by Tom Olmscheid - AP

about 1 month ago: Nashville Predators center Mike Santorelli (18) tips in a goal in front of Minnesota Wild defenseman Marek Zidlicky, center, of the Czech Republic, and Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom, right, of Finland, during the second period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009, in St. Paul,Minn. (AP Photo/Tom Olmscheid)

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With the game on the line midway through the final period, a shorthanded breakaway by Jerred Smithson gave the Nashville Predators the winning goal in a 4-3 decision at Minnesota. For the Wild, it was their first loss on home ice.

The Preds had to overcome a second period collapse before rallying back to take charge of this game. After the jump, we've got video highlights and the statistical breakdown...

Once again, the early story had to do with the Preds' inability to hold a lead. After taking a 2-0 advantage (on goals by J.P. Dumont, and Shea Weber on the power play) into the 1st intermission, Nashville gave up 3 goals quickly at the beginning of the 2nd period. Dan Ellis was pulled and the Preds found themselves battling to get back into the game.

Fortunately enough, a 4-on-4 situation yielded Mike Santorelli's first career NHL goal; Joel Ward cut into the slot and fired off a shot, which deflected off Santorelli's skate as he camped out near the Minnesota net, and the game was tied at 3.

When Cody Franson headed into the penalty box for holding midway through the 3rd, things were starting to look dicey for Nashville. But a breakaway by Jerred Smithson on the PK, and a breathtaking toe-drag on his part, led to a shorthanded goal that put the Preds ahead 4-3 with just over 9 minutes left. Nashville managed to hold on despite a furious charge by Minnesota with the goalie pulled in the final seconds.

Steve Sullivan finished with 2 assists, Shea Weber ended with a goal and an assist, and somewhat surprisingly, Kevin Klein led all Predators with 24:05 of ice time. Pekka Rinne made all 12 saves in relief to pull out the victory.

As for the even-strength breakdown, it looked like this:

Even Strength		Individual Totals					Team Totals While Player Is On Ice
Player	Pos	EV TOI	Shots	Shts Blkd	Missed Shts	Blocks	SOG For	SOG Ag	SOG +/-	Tot SF	Tot SA	Corsi
David Legwand	C	19:05	1	0	1	0	4	8	-4	17	16	1
Jean-Pierre Dumont	R	17:37	1	1	0	0	7	9	-2	19	15	4
Dave Scatchard	C	12:37	1	1	0	0	5	6	-1	13	12	1
Colin Wilson	C	11:25	3	0	0	0	7	3	4	12	8	4
Patric Hornqvist	R	12:07	1	0	1	0	6	3	3	10	6	4
Steve Sullivan	L	15:40	1	3	1	0	7	7	0	17	14	3
Michael Santorelli	C	13:00	1	1	1	0	4	3	1	12	5	7
Martin Erat	R	14:02	0	2	1	1	2	5	-3	14	9	5
Joel Ward	R	15:03	0	0	1	0	3	5	-2	12	9	3
Marcel Goc	C	10:18	0	1	1	1	2	7	-5	8	12	-4
Wade Belak	R	6:48	0	0	1	0	1	1	0	5	3	2
Jerred Smithson	R	10:33	0	2	0	1	2	6	-4	10	12	-2
Shea Weber	D	17:52	0	2	4	2	4	12	-8	16	18	-2
Ryan Suter	D	18:35	1	1	0	1	6	11	-5	16	16	0
Dan Hamhuis	D	18:27	3	1	2	0	7	7	0	15	12	3
Kevin Klein	D	22:48	1	0	0	2	8	4	4	24	15	9
Francis Bouillon	D	19:24	0	1	3	2	5	3	2	20	14	6
Cody Franson	D	10:49	1	0	0	1	4	5	-1	9	7	2

All in all, that's a pretty balanced effort; yes, the 4th line of Goc, Belak and Smithson got outshot at even strength, but that's not surprising, especially when on the road. A large number of shots that missed the net is part of why Suter & Weber's SOG totals don't look so good.

Poll

Who is your Predator of the Game?

Jerred Smithson, SH goal

43 votes

Pekka Rinne, 12 saves in relief

10 votes

Shea Weber, 1 goal, 1 assist

5 votes

58 votes | Poll has closed