The historic Nashville Predators’ season continues at Bridgestone Arena tonight as the New Jersey Devils visit. A win could mean valuable space in the playoff race.
Since the end of last season, it seems there is plenty to celebrate with the Nashville Predators. Last year ended with the team’s first appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. Now in their twentieth season, the Predators are witnessing more history. First, it was earning David Poile his 1320th win making him the all-time leading General Manager in the NHL’s 100 years. Tonight, the team looks to extend their franchise-best win streak to 11 games.
Winning tonight would extend the Predator’s division lead to 8 points as Winnipeg lost earlier today.
The New Jersey Devils come to call, hoping to pitchfork holes in the Predators celebration and add to their lead in the second wild-card position in the Eastern Conference. They sit three points ahead of a hot Florida Panther’s team, but are facing the hottest team in the NHL tonight. Will the Predators extend their streak, or will the Devils come down to Nashville a steal the game?
What to watch
New Jersey is having a devil of a time. Since the start of March, the Devils are 1-4-0, including two losses on the road. Still, they have kept games close losing by a single goal to Florida, Vegas, and Winnipeg. This all comes after finishing February on a 6-1-0 run.
The Devil’s offense is propelled by Hart Trophy candidate Taylor Hall, who has 30 goals and 44 assists. He is top 10 in points and goals created; however, only 20 of his goals come at even strength. Kyle Palmieri is second on the team is goals with 18, while Nico Hischier is second in points with 43.
The Predators hold the deepest roster in the NHL. Players for multiple lines contribute goals most games. Their last time out versus Anaheim was Ryan Johansen, Viktor Arvidsson, Craig Smith and Austin Watson find the back of the net. Watson’s goal was his team-leading third short-handed goal on the season. Arvidsson leads the Predators with 25 goals on the season.
Nashville leads the all-time series 12-9-5, including a 3-0 shutout of the Devils on the road in January.
Projected Line-up
Roman Josi participated in the morning skate and looks to be ready to return to the lineup tonight. The Predators’ captain has 10 points in his last five games. Kevin Fiala also looks to return after a night off against Anaheim. The team will continue to rotate players out as Calle Jarnkrok is given a night off.
While no starting goalie has been announced, expect Juuse Saros to get the call.
Filip Forsberg – Ryan Johansen – Viktor Arvidsson
Kevin Fiala – Kyle Turris – Craig Smith
Scott Hartnell – Nick Bonino – Ryan Hartman
Colton Sissons – Mike Fisher – Austin Watson
Defense
Roman Josi – Ryan Ellis
Goaltenders
Juuse Saros
Next: Just give Pekka the Vezina
Where to watch
Tonight’s game from Nashville comes with a 7 p.m. Central start time with Predators Live Pregame beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Fox Sports Tennessee. You can stream on the Fox Sports Go app. The game can also be heard on 102.5 FM, The Game.
Follow @PredlinesNSH on Twitter for news and reactions as the game progresses!