Nashville Predators: Change in the lineup for tonight is not what you think

Game 4 of the opening round series brings a change to the Nashville Predators’ lineup. Don’t get excited. It is not what you think.

When teams perform poorly, adjustments are made to prepare for the next game. Often, these adjustments include changing the game plan or adding new plays. It was evident by the reports from the Nashville Predators’ practice yesterday the game plan is being manipulated. Speed was the common theme. However, another adjustment is occurring. This one is on the roster.

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Twitter was laced yesterday with talk of Calle Jarnkrok performing fully in practice. Several people have suggested he take the place of Mike Fisher when ready. The beloved veteran’s lack-luster performance in the playoffs sparked such conversation. The only area in which Fisher has made an impact is the face-off circle. In just 25 minutes on the ice, Fisher has witnessed three Avalanche goals and just one for the Predators. The team has accrued 16 total shots and six scoring-chances during Fisher’s play. It doesn’t help that he has only been deployed in the offensive zone 21.43% of the time.

However, Adam Vingan of the Tennessean posted speculated Jarnkrok could return tonight.

Not the change we were looking for…

According to the Nashville Predators’ website, Fisher is projected to be in the lineup.  As is Miikka Salomaki. No Calle Jarnkrok. No Scott Hartnell.

Side note: What is going on with Hartnell?

The change tonight is Yannick Weber in for Alexei Emelin. It may come as a shock that Emelin is out instead of Matt Irwin; however, Irwin has excelled this playoff. While accumulating 28 minutes on the ice, Irwin has allowed two high-danger chances to the Avalanche. They have a total of 22 in the series. Irwin’s Corsi rating is above 50% and the on-ice save percentage while he is staking is 92%. Not too shabby.

Of course, this is projected based on Tuesday’s practice. The Predators held an optional practice today. Most of the team was on the ice.

Projected line-up

The rest of the line-up remains intact. Ryan Hartman‘s speed makes him an asset on the third line, but he has yet to play well offensively.

Forwards

Filip Forsberg – Ryan Johansen – Viktor Arvidsson

Kevin Fiala – Kyle Turris – Craig Smith

Colton Sissons – Nick Bonino – Austin Watson

Miikka Salomaki – Mike Fisher – Ryan Hartman

Defense

Roman Josi – Ryan Ellis

Mattias Ekholm – P.K. Subban

Matt Irwin – Yannick Weber

Goaltenders

Pekka Rinne

Juuse Saros

Next: Go to the danger zone!

Where to watch

Game 4 of the series between the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche begins at 8:30 p.m. Central time and will be broadcast on Fox Sports Tennessee. Fans outside the Nashville area can view the game on NBCSN. You can also listen to the game on 102.5 The Game. Be sure to follow @PredlinesNSH on Twitter for updates and commentary.