There was a palpable feeling of dejavu among the 17,113 at Bridgestone Arena as the Predators went on the power play with a few minutes to go in yesterday’s 4-3 victory over the Ducks. Memories of Game 5 went through everyone’s mind… including (per his post-game presser) Barry Trotz.
Consider that handled. The Predators proved they have learned over and over again this year, showing character and resiliency in this season of change and growth. Last night was just the latest display. I’ll come out and say it… this team loses a game like that last year, but not this.
The new leadership group has imprinted the entire team with a calm and a confidence that shows in how they handle success and more importantly, how they handle adversity. While Pred Nation is riding the roller coaster, the team handles it like a carousel, knowing that things will come around if they just stick to the plan.
The teams get to wait an extra day as Lady Gaga takes over Bridgestone Arena for load in today and the show tomorrow night. Game four is Wednesday, puck drop at 7:30pm.
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Random Notes
- Halfway through the second period, Nashville was outshooting Anaheim 25-5.
- Lost in all the craziness last night was a truly spectacular goal from Jordin Tootoo. His goal in the first period was amazing, scoring on his own rebound, through the legs of the defender… unbelievable.
- Wondering if the NHL will look at the rather nasty slewfoot from Todd Marchant on Joel Ward in the third period.
- Corey Perry is very underrated as a disturber. His glove-on punch to SK74 late in the second goes unnoticed by everyone at Bridgestone Arena last night, except Shane O’Brien… he noticed, and the rest of the Preds… they noticed, and the 17,113 watching the game… they noticed as well. No penalty for Perry.
- Also interesting how Perry was willing to take a few pokes at Kostitsyn, but when O’Brien came over to take up the cause he wanted no parts of him. I’ll give Ryan Getzlaf credit, at least he danced…
- Unbelievable call on Raffi Torres last night, only a minor? I happen to agree with Chicago coach Joel Quinneville, it should’ve been a five minute major. Definitely a turning point in the game.
- The impending suspension of Torres is an interesting twist to the Vancouver story… does this derail the sweep? I doubt it… Vancouver, however, may have to deal with a long layoff if they do complete it. It does look like a couple of Western series are going six or seven. Will a week long layoff help or hurt this team?
- The Rangers rose up yesterday with a rather nice 3-2 victory over Washington. They ain’t going quietly, I’ll give ‘em that. Dubinsky’s goal to win it was of the highlight reel variety.
- The Philadelphia Flyers need to take one in HSBC Arena if they hope to continue their season, without Chris Pronger it’s going to be tough. I also expect to see Brian Boucher in net the rest of the way.
- Today’s Playoff Schedule – Philadelphia @ Buffalo, Game 3, 6pm CDT (Versus) – Boston @ Montreal, Game 3, 6:30pm CDT (Regional) – Pittsburgh @ Tampa Bay, Game 3, 6:30pm CDT (Regional) – Detroit @ Phoenix, Game 3, 9:30pm (Versus)
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You are invited to follow me on Twitter. Search for @PredPAPaul… Not only will I be updating when I get news or updates, but we are having a bit of fun by getting your input on Gnash introductions, weigh in on Twitter and who knows, we may use your introduction for the best mascot in the NHL at the next Preds game!
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COMING UP ON THE NEXT SLAPSHOT RADIO…
We’re joining forces with the WNSR Pre-Game show to get your ready for Game Four on Wednesday show… Join us at 6pm CDT, live from the roof at Rippy’s on SportsRadio 560 WNSR.
You can get check out our podcasts at
the SlapShot Radio podcast page.
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