Marc Torrence
Sep 03, 2010 May 31, 2012 144 1279
Journalism student at the University of Alabama and Writer at SB Nation's OnTheForecheck.com
website: On The Forecheck
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Nicklas Lidstrom announces press conference for tomorrow: Does this spell doom for Ryan Suter?
by Marc Torrence on May 30, 2012 4:28 PM EDT
in Discussions
on On the Forecheck
Twitter has been abuzz this last hour or so, as the Detroit Red Wings have announced that the team will hold a press conference tomorrow at 11 a.m. in Detroit for Nicklas Lidstrom. While nothing is confirmed, the thinking here is that Lidstrom will either announce a) his retirement or b) he is coming back for one more year.
TSN's Aaron Ward, a former teammate of Lidstrom's, says a source tells him that Lidstrom will announce his retirement. Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press is saying the same thing.
So what does this mean for the Predators? Nashville's offseason pretty much hinges on what Ryan Suter decides to do, and one would imagine that Lidstrom's decision could have a pretty big effect on what Suter does.
Follow after the jump for more:
21 comments
SB Nation's NHL Awards 2012: OTF's Norris Trophy Ballot
by Marc Torrence on May 22, 2012 12:37 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators News
on On the Forecheck
SB Nation is conducting its own set of NHL awards this season. Yesterday, we showed you the results of the Vezina Trophy, and today it's time to reveal who won the Norris Trophy.
While it should come as no surprise, the result will make Preds fans very happy. The SB Nation gang selected Shea Weber as the winner of the Norris trophy with Zdeno Chara coming in second and Erik Karlsson coming in third.
Here's a look at how the OTF staff voted:
Chris: (1) Shea Weber, (2) Alex Pietrangelo, (3) Zdeno Chara
Marc: (1) Shea Weber, (2) Zdeno Chara, (3) Erik Karlsson
Dirk: (1) Shea Weber, (2) Zdeno Chara, (3) Erik Karlsson
Coming tomorrow, we announce our pick for the Lady Byng.
I don't even know what to title this
OtF enforcer 3DLink's Honey Badger/Predobear creation has made the rounds, but we didn't know it made it THIS far around. (sticktap to Zack Bennett for finding this)
New features announced for NHL '13
by Marc Torrence on May 19, 2012 8:00 AM EDT
in Discussions
on On the Forecheck
If you're like me, you love playing EA Sports' NHL games, even after the season is over. The series is probably my favorite of all the EA Sports games.
EA Sports has already announced a couple of new features for next year's game via a press release, and I already can't wait to get my hands on it.
Follow after the jump for more:
Was the 2011-2012 Nashville Predators season a disappointment? (and other scrambled thoughts from a sad fan)
by Marc Torrence on May 8, 2012 7:00 AM EDT
in Nashville Predators Analysis
on On the Forecheck
Yes, and here's why:
Disclaimer: This was written right after Monday's game ended. It is unorganized, not very well thought out and I'll probably regret it later. But hey, that's what being a fan's all about right? Here goes....
Andrei Kostitsyn and Alexander Radulov suspended for Game 3 of Nashville vs. Phoenix
by Marc Torrence on May 1, 2012 12:28 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators News
on On the Forecheck
We knew things might get a little messy over the next couple of days as the Predators get ready for Game 3 down 0-2 against the Phoenix Coyotes. I'm not sure we thought it would get this bad.
Nashville, Tenn. (May 1, 2012) - Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that forwards Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn will not play Game Three of the team's Western Conference Semifinals series vs. the Phoenix Coyotes as result of violating team rules.
"The Nashville Predators have a few simple rules centered around doing the right things," Poile said. "We have always operated with a team-first mentality and philosophy. Violating team rules is not fair to our team and their teammates."
The Predators practice today at 11 a.m. CT at Centennial Sportsplex and play Game Three at Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, May 2 at 8 p.m. CT.
More after the jump:
UPDATE AFTER THE JUMP:
UPDATE II (comments from Poile):
Coyotes 5, Predators 3: Nashville falls into 2-0 series hole
by Marc Torrence on Apr 29, 2012 11:00 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Game Recaps
on On the Forecheck
Is there really much to say after that? The Coyotes pretty much controlled the flow of play the whole game, and any time the Preds scored a goal and found some sliver of life, Phoenix snatched it right back.
The Preds now find themselves in a 2-0 deficit in the series, but will have two days to figure things out before taking the ice in Nashville on Wednesday night.
Highlights, thoughts and our first ever twitter recap after the jump:
Predators @ Coyotes Game 2 third period game thread
by Marc Torrence on Apr 29, 2012 9:55 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Game Threads
on On the Forecheck
Well this stinks.
Predators @ Coyotes Game 2 second period game thread
by Marc Torrence on Apr 29, 2012 8:52 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Game Threads
on On the Forecheck
Whew.
Take part in tonight's OtF recap!
We're going to try something a little different with tonight's recap. Use the twitter hashtag #OTFRecap and your tweets might appear on OtF after the game!
Get to know a Phoenix Coyote: Oliver Ekman-Larsson
by Marc Torrence on Apr 26, 2012 7:07 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Analysis
on On the Forecheck
In preparation for Nashville's upcoming series against Phoenix, we figured it would be a good idea to take a look at some Coyotes that Predators fans might not be so familiar with. Now we present: Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Outside of Keith Yandle, the Coyotes don't have that many big names playing for them on the blue line. One who has stood out this year, however, is the youngster Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
Phoenix drafted Ekman-Larsson sixth overall in 2009, and he split time between Phoenix and San Antonio during the 2010-11 season. This year, Ekman-Larsson played a full 82-game season and appeared in all six of the Coyotes' playoff games, helping Phoenix earn its first ever playoff series win.
Follow after the jump for more:
New On The Forecheck Podcast: 2012 NHL Playoff Preview
by Marc Torrence on Apr 11, 2012 10:01 AM EDT
in Nashville Predators Podcasts
on On the Forecheck
2012 NHL Playoffs: The Nashville Predators' time
by Marc Torrence on Apr 11, 2012 7:00 AM EDT
in Nashville Predators Analysis
on On the Forecheck
"Shea Weber will sign long-term if the Predators go deep in the playoffs."
"Management will pony up the cash to lock up Nashville's core if it makes a run at the Stanley Cup."
"Radulov will surely stay if he sees the Predators can compete at the highest level in the NHL."
If. If. If.
It used to be that Nashville and its fans were content with simply making the playoffs. After all, nobody hardly ever expected the bargain bin Predators to even make the playoffs, let alone do any damage in them. And they were right, for the most part. Until last year, Nashville never made it past the first round of the playoffs and even then looked like an over-matched team in the second round.
But things have changed.
New On The Forecheck Podcast: Episode Seven
by Marc Torrence on Mar 24, 2012 2:07 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Podcasts
on On the Forecheck
Chris Burton fills in for Sam Page in the latest episode as we discuss all the latest happenings with the Nashville Predators. Obviously the big story has been the Alex Radulov situation, but Chris and I also hit on the recent play of Pekka Rinne, a couple of key inuries that have hurt the Predators as of late, as well as look ahead to a couple of potential playoff matchups.
Follow after the jump to listen to and download the lastest edition of the On The Forecheck Podcast:
Predators 3, Ducks 1: Preds overtake Detroit for fourth place in the Western Conference
by Marc Torrence on Mar 18, 2012 10:46 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Game Recaps
on On the Forecheck
The Nashville Predators beat the Anaheim Ducks to pass the Detroit Red Wings for fourth place in the Western Conference. Both teams have earned 92 points in 72 games played, but the Predators carry one more regulation/overtime win and therefore get the nod for fourth place.
Anders Lindback got the start in net tonight and put in a stellar performance, stopping 30 of 31 shots against to earn his first win since December 1st.
The game was also somewhat overshadowed by a report that Radulov could indeed be on his way back to Nashville very soon.
Follow after the jump for video highlights and post-game reaction:
Nashville Predators @ Anaheim Ducks third period game thread
by Marc Torrence on Mar 18, 2012 9:41 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators Game Threads
on On the Forecheck
Yes, there's still a game going on.
Report: Alexander Radulov set to return to the Nashville Predators this season
by Marc Torrence on Mar 18, 2012 9:34 PM EDT
in Nashville Predators News
on On the Forecheck
After weeks of rampant speculation, it appears Alexander Radulov is finally free.
The Prodigal Predator is set to return to the NHL, according to a report from Slava Malamud:
Radulov and Salavat appear to have reached a deal allowing A-Rad to leave for Nashville now. Salavat to keep his KHL rights (Sport-Express)
Sport-Express reports Radulov's talks w/ KHL, Salavat are over. He'll fly to Ufa tomorrow, most likely leave for Nashville later this week.
It appears the only question now is not if, but when Radulov will make his much-anticipated return to the Predator lineup. It doesn't seem like he could be back in time for Tuesday's home game against the Oilers. Could we potentially peg Saturday night against the Jets as a realistic return point? It would appear so.
Let's hear your reaction. Where does he fit in the lineup? Is this the spark the Predators need after a couple of lackluster performances?
Here's the original article, run through Google translate:
According to forecasts, "SE" in the coming days, Alexander Radulov, most likely, will have the opportunity to go to the NHL, "Nashville Predators". On Monday, the 25-year-old hockey player from Moscow, where he underwent medical examination, will fly to Ufa, where the loser playoffs NHL "Salavat" resume training.
After the probable departure of the "Nashville" last year of the contract overseas players will burn at the same time, according to our information, the rights to Radulov in the CHL will continue to "Salavat Yulaev". Recall that with this club the best scorer of the regular season was signed until the summer of 2013. (Igor Larin)
Update:
Josh Cooper talked to Barry Trotz after the game about the report and it appears Trotz thinks Radulov could be back this week:
"I was informed when we came off the ice about that," Coach Barry Trotz said after the Predators beat the Ducks here on Sunday. "And if that's the case I think that's probably pretty clear, I felt very confident he was coming over, that it just sounded like there was sort of a release problem.
"I know David talked to his agent and his agent said he was planning to make his way to Nashville, and it was the release that was holding him up. That's why he stayed the extra couple of days. He was planning to get on the plane Friday, from what I understand and he couldn't work out the release."
Update #2 (Dirk):
Russian reporter Pavel Lysenkov adds to the confirmations this morning:
Yuri Nikolayev, the agent Radulov, told me right now: "Yes, he's leaving." Expect to see Radu in Thurs game vs Pens. #Preds
— Pavel Lysenkov (@plysenkov) March 19, 2012
New On The Forecheck Podcast: Episode Six
by Marc Torrence on Mar 3, 2012 12:56 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Podcasts
on On the Forecheck
After a brief hiatus, the On the Forecheck podcast is back!
In today's episode, Sam and I get caught up on everything that has happened in the Nashville Predators world, including the Jerred Smithson trade, the acquisition of Hal Gill, the deadline deals for Andrei Kostitsyn and Paul Gaustad and of course, the mad Russian himself, Alex Radulov.
Follow after the jump to listen to and download the latest episode!
Predators 2, Kings 1: Preds pick up two points as they await two new players
by Marc Torrence on Feb 27, 2012 10:40 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Recaps
on On the Forecheck
So much for a trade deadline hangover.
Just hours after acquiring Andrei Kostitsyn and Paul Gaustad during a frenzied afternoon, the Predators took care of business on the ice, taking down the re-tooled Los Angeles Kings 2-1 at Bridgestone Arena.
Roman Josi and Patric Hornqvist scored for Nashville, and Pekka Rinne stopped 30 shots in the win.
The win puts more pressure on St. Louis, which is locked in a battle with the Calgary Flames at the time of this writing. The Predators will have Kostitsyn and Gaustad with them tomorrow night in Carolina, and look to only get stronger to finish the season.
Follow after the jump for video highlights and some post-game thoughts:
Kings @ Predators third period game thread
by Marc Torrence on Feb 27, 2012 9:32 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Threads
on On the Forecheck
Bring it home...
Nashville Predators trade Jerred Smithson to Florida for 6th round draft pick
by Marc Torrence on Feb 24, 2012 5:41 PM EST
in Nashville Predators News
on On the Forecheck
From the Panthers' official twitter page:
BREAKING: #FlaPanthers acquire Jerred Smithson from @PredsNHL for a 6th round pick in 2012 Draft.
After being such a reliable faceoff and penalty kill specialist last year, Smithson was starting to become the odd man out of the Preds' lineup when everyone was healthy, so it had been speculated that he could be out of town soon, and Poile was able to get a draft pick out of it.
The question now becomes what do the Predators do next? Is the team stock-piling draft picks for a future deal?
Update:
Let's all revisit Smithson's finest moment as a Predator, as he delivered quite possibly the biggest goal in franchise history:
A portion of the team's release after the jump.
Canucks @ Predators Third Period Game Thread
by Marc Torrence on Feb 21, 2012 9:54 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Threads
on On the Forecheck
Go!
Nashville Predators Trade Targets: Mikhail Grabovski
by Marc Torrence on Feb 20, 2012 2:00 PM EST
in Discussions
on On the Forecheck
The Nashville Predators got bigger on the blueline adding Hal Gill on defense, but the need for a scoring forward still remains. Darren Dreger gave us a piece of information on twitter a couple of days ago that certainly got Preds fans talking:
For those unable to see Insider Trading. Offer for [Mikhail] Grabovski is for a 2nd rnd pick and prospect. Could get more. Still hope to re-sign him.
So should the Predators go after the Toronto center?
Bruins 4, Predators 3 (shootout): Predators steal a point in Boston
by Marc Torrence on Feb 11, 2012 3:49 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Recaps
on On the Forecheck
The Nashville Predators fell to the Boston Bruins 4-3 in a shootout in a game that should never have gotten that far.
Nashville was dominated by the physical Bruins from start to finish, but somehow managed to stay in it until eventually losing in a shootout.
It was Nashville's third loss in a row, and its fourth loss in six tries since the all-star break.
Video highlights and post-game reaction after the jump:
Blues @ Predators Preview: Central collision
by Marc Torrence on Feb 4, 2012 12:05 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Previews
on On the Forecheck
Life doesn't get any easier for the post all-star break Nashville Predators. After trips to Minnesota and Philadelphia, the Predators come back home to Nashville tonight to face one of the surprise teams in the Central Division: The St. Louis Blues (7:00 CT; 102.5 The Game).
The Predators and Blues are two of the hottest teams in the league coming into tonight's game. St. Louis has won nine of its last 12 games, and the Predators have only lost three times in their last 16. The two teams are also just a point apart in the standings, so tonight's game is as critical a game as the Predators will play in the Central Division this year.
More after the jump:
New On The Forecheck Podcast: Episode five
by Marc Torrence on Feb 3, 2012 1:47 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Podcasts
on On the Forecheck
In today's episode, Sam and I discuss a number of hot topics in the Nashville Predators community such as Tuesday's wild win (see what I did there?), the loss to Philadelphia, Sam breaks down the "Smithson face," Ryan Suter's comments at the all-star game, potential trade targets and a look ahead at the Predators' upcoming stretch of tough games.
Follow after the jump to download and listen:
Nashville Predators trade targets: Bobby Ryan
by Marc Torrence on Feb 2, 2012 3:00 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Analysis
on On the Forecheck
With the trade deadline approaching, the Nashville Predators are poised to make a move that could significantly improve the team down the stretch. Over the next couple of weeks, we'll take a look at a few potential players that could bolster the Preds' lineup. First up: Bobby Ryan.
Injury update: Ryan Suter in, Francis Bouillion out
by Marc Torrence on Jan 23, 2012 4:16 PM EST
in Nashville Predators News
on On the Forecheck
The Nashville Predators got some good news today, as NHL.com and Smashville 24/7 are both reporting that Ryan Suter will return to the lineup tonight against Columbus.
Predators defenseman Ryan Suter will return to the lineup tonight when his team hosts the Columbus Blue Jackets, securing his ability to play in the 2012 Tim Hortons NHL All-Star Game.
Suter, who ranks third in the League in average time on ice at 26:30, missed the last three games with an upper-body injury, potentially jeopardizing his ability to play in his first All-Star Game. However, that issue seems to have resolved itself.
The Predators went 3-1 without Suter in the lineup, including the game against the Islanders that he left early.
The also news comes at just the right time, because it looks like Francis Bouillon will miss tonight's game. He left Saturday's game against Chicago with an upper-body injury and is currently considered day-to-day.
Defenseman Francis Bouillon, who left Saturday's game against Chicago with an upper-body injury, skated this morning after most of the team had left the ice. Trotz, who said Bouillon's injury was "nothing serious" on Saturday, said the veteran defenseman is "day-to-day."
"It feels good, but it sucks that I'm going to be out tonight," [Bouillon] said. "It's never fun when you're not playing, but I feel good skating."
Expect Suter to slide into Bouillon's spot on the top pairing alongside Weber, with Josi and Klein playing together on the second pairing, and Hillen and Ellis rounding out the defensive corps.
New On The Forecheck Podcast: Episode Four
by Marc Torrence on Jan 19, 2012 7:02 AM EST
in Nashville Predators Podcasts
on On the Forecheck
In today's episode of the On The Forecheck Podcast, Dirk makes his first appearance on the show!
First, Sam and I recap the Predators hot streak as of late, then Dirk joins us to give his opinion on Sergei Kostitsyn's play as well as the recent happenings on the Shea Weber/Ryan Suter front. Finally, Sam and I do a quick look ahead at what could be a defining stretch of games coming up for the Predators in the Central Divison.
Follow after the jump to listen to and download the latest edition of the On The Forecheck Podcast!
Predators 3, Islanders 1: Big first period gives Preds matinée win
by Marc Torrence on Jan 16, 2012 3:40 PM EST
in Nashville Predators Game Recaps
on On the Forecheck
The Predators struck early and often en route to a 3-1 win over the New York Islanders in a rare weekday afternoon game.
Sergei Kostitsyn, Matt Halischuk and David Legwand all scored for Nashville and Pekka Rinne made 36 saves on 37 shots to get the win. The Predators continued their hot streak and have won eight games in their last nine tries.
The early start should benefit the Predators, as they'll be able to get a little bit of a rest before turning around for a primetime game against the New York Rangers tomorrow night on national TV.
Video highlights and post-game reaction from today's win after the jump:
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