Nashville Predators Season Report Card as They Reach the Quarter Mark
By Kyle Fleming
Mediocre Defense and Goaltending
The defense during the first quarter of the season has been nonexistent at times. Where is the Norris Trophy finalist in Roman Josi this season? Where is the play that had Alexandre Carrier break the franchise record for most points by a rookie defenseman?
They have not shown up this year. And because of that, because of the defense not playing good in front of the goalies, goaltending has suffered as well.
The Nashville Predators have allowed 650 shots on goal against and Juuse Saros and Kevin Lankinen have a combined save percentage of .902. Very average.
The Predators have also allowed 143 high danger scoring chances against. These are a result of defensemen not clearing the slot and goalies allowing rebounds in high danger areas. Another really bad trend.
Even if the Nashville Predators offense starts firing on all cylinders, allowing 3.2 goals per game is not how you make the Playoffs or win a Stanley Cup.