Nashville Predators Morning Predlines: Oh, what a night!

After giving up a three-goal lead, the Nashville Predators  needed a late game rally to win. They won. It was just one of the great performances last night.

Oh, what a night! The final 10 minutes of the game between the Nashville Predators and the Philadelphia Flyers had everything. Aggressive forward play offensively and great shot blocks on defense. Hard, crisp shots the found the net and others meeting their end in the goalie’s glove. A game-tying power-play goal that was reviewed but not overturned.

And a game-winning goal in the final moments. After the battle was over, the Predators won. The scene was as close to a playoff game feel as a season opener could be.

Now that the dust settled, and (hopefully) some sleep has been enjoyed, there are a few points to ponder.

Give credit were due

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First of all, Samuel Girard deserves his roster spot. Even at 19-years-old. Most of the game, Girard moved with purpose, determination. His maturity shined through, tallying the first points of what should be a long and enjoyable career. There were moments of concern; however, he is exceeding expectations.

Then, how good is the old man, Scott Hartnell? Seriously. His play says that great things are still ahead for him, even if his age establishes him as the eldest player on the Predators. But, without him, the Predators do not win. Not just because he scored twice, but his attitude and poise on the ice.

However, the goals don’t hurt either.

Can we give Mattias Ekholm some love, too?  It gets overlooked, yet his play gave the Predators a chance. For example, the Nick Bonino’s goal in the second period, Ekholm comes flying in from the bench on a shift change, get the puck, and goes straight to the net. His shot was blocked, but Bonino followed the rebound for the goal. Ekholm was aggressive, playing with purpose. That is what the Predators need.

Around the NHL

Can someone please tell the Vegas Golden Knights that they are an expansion team now? In an emotionally charged night, the Golden Knights took out their feeling on the goal. They were out shot, out hit, and out blocked, but the Golden Knights came away with a 5-2 victory, scoring four times in the opening period. Of course, James Neal tallied two of those four. (NHL)

In a game between two Original Six team, the Blackhawk pulled out a yet another win over Montreal. There were several reasons why. (Blackhawk Up)

St. Louis is not holding back this year. The Blues defensive is showing off. (Bleedin’ Blue)

The Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins took time to visit the White House. (NHL)

Next: Pair of Blown Leads Ends with Predators 6-5 Victory

After an exciting night, there is certainly lots to discuss. Check back in with Predlines for all your Predators talk!