Ok, so it wasn’t pretty, but it’s good to see the Predators getting back into the win column. Nashville gained all six possible points this week to regain the top spot in the Central by one point over Winnipeg. The team is currently second in the West behind Calgary (weird, I know). The good news is the Preds are finally getting healthy. If they can keep their heads above water these next few games before the Christmas break, you have to like their chances moving forward.
BLOWN LATE LEADS
So I said it wasn’t pretty this week. In two of the games, the Preds held a lead with less than two minutes left in the game. In both of those games, Vancouver and New Jersey, the Preds allowed the game tying goal while the opponent had the goalie pulled for the extra attacker. While they were able to go on to with both games in OT or the shootout, it’s a little concerning to see the late goal allowed in back to back games. Hopefully, this doesn’t become a trend and the Preds can figure out how to clamp down and close the game out.
GETTING HEALTHY
The Predators finally got some good news on the injury front. Kyle Turris returned to action on Thursday night and picked up an assist in his first game back. Turris has been having a pretty good year so far so it’s nice to get him back. His return also helps balance the lines back out and let’s everyone play on their more natural lines. On the flip side, there’s rumors that P.K. Subban may be close to returning. The Preds are being patient with him as they don’t want to rush him back, but there are rumblings he may make the upcoming road trip. We’ll see what happens with P.K., but getting him back would be a huge boost.
SAROS BACK TO FORM
It was only one game, but Juuse Saros played out of his mind on Saturday night. He was perfect outside a late goal with the extra attacker. If not for Juuse though, the Preds would had been in deep trouble. Saros had been struggling lately, so it’s encouraging to see him right the ship.
DAVID POILE – HALL OF FAMER
Off the ice, the Preds had some huge news. Predators’ GM David Poile was inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. Poile has done so much for the game of hockey in his career, not only in the NHL but also with Team USA. While I haven’t agreed with every move the GM has made, there’s no denying the impact he has had while here. Congrats to David Poile – Hall of Famer.
PREDS THREE STARS OF THE WEEK
First Star – David Poile – Getting inducted into the Hall of Fame is a pretty big deal. I’d say deserves this spot.
Second Star – Juuse Saros – He only played one game, but Juuse turned in an outstanding performance. Saros made 33 of 34 saves and stood on his head all night. He single-handedly kept the Preds in the game and earned the two points.
Third Star – Colton Sissons – A goal and two assists including the game winner in OT against the Canucks. Sissons has himself 16 points this season as he has stepped up offensively with all the injuries.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Four games left before the Christmas break, all on the road. First up it’s a back to back with Ottawa and Chicago on Monday and Tuesday. Then it’s the Flyers on Thursday night and the Bruins on Saturday before they shut it down for a few days for Christmas. This is a pivotal stretch as you’d like to see them finish strong before the break.
Be sure to check out the Talking Preds Podcast. New episodes almost weekly. Be sure to follow along on Twitter and Facebook for live tweeting during the games along with something new we’re trying out. For certain games, I’ll be jumping on live during intermissions, pre-game, or post-game with thoughts on the game. Love to have some good hockey discussion so follow along and let me know what you guys think.
Herbie Brooks is the Lead Nashville Predators Analyst for SoBros Network. He knows three things: beating Commies, winning Gold Medals, and having great hair. Follow him on Twitter: @SoBroHerbie_B
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