Even with local television making the forecast sound like the coming of the apocalypse, the odds of the game being cancelled are slim. For one, the NHL played the NBC Caps/Pens game on schedule despite a state of emergency due to snow. And for two, New York is a real city - no reason to close down for something so petty as a few inches of snow. Of course, the LIRR has already put out a warning that 10 inches will shut down the system so my personal four year streak of not missing a regular season home game is in jeopardy. And not the fun kind with Alex Trebek.
Where We Are: Coming off of a huge win over the Devils on Saturday. They've actually had two straight days of practice, which hasn't happened in a month.
Where They Are: Nashville lost Tuesday in a shootout on the Island. The Fishermen had their triple backup goalie Biron in the net so it was all the more embarrassing. However, they are in seventh in the West with 67 points in 59 games; the Rangers sit in 10th with 59 in 59.Who To Watch For: They are doing quite well without having and real standout scorers. The neck-less Barry Trotz has them playing such a great team game on both sides of the ice that the entire team is dangerous - from Hank's soon-to-be-teammate on Sweden Patric Hornqvist down to Milwaukee call-up Cal O'Reilly, who scored his first goal against the Isles. That being said, old Devil foe Jason Arnott is always dangerous, as is Martin Erat.
What To Watch For: The Rangers giving too much room to the Pred blueliners, who are all capable of blasting the puck on goal. Ryan Suter, Shea Weber, Cody Franson all have incredible shots that they are not afraid to take. If Francis Bouillon has a decent game, rumour has it that Sather may swing a deal for him (and despite his name, Bouillon is a NY native). Joel Ward broke free for a gorgeous breakaway goal on the Isles and can turn on the jets just like that. Dan Ellis can get hot and run away with games - just ask Chris Mason - seeing as Pekka Rinne started against the Isles, we are likely to see @dellis39.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: No snow. Another outstanding effort from the Rangers, including Chris Drury - he has a one game scoring streak. Marian Gaborik not to show any signs of injury from his cut in practice (see! that's what happens when we start talkin' bout practice!). Hank shutting down Hornqvist. Sean Avery not wasting time with Jordin Tootoo but Brandon Prust beating down Wade Belak after the albino does something dumb.
Also Check Out: The local MSM guy is John Glennon SBN has On The Forecheck, Nashville's Sommet Center has born Section 303, See Puck City is good, as is What the Puck?
Peepin' Foes: Nashville Predators - A Look into Music City's Hockey Scene
In the heart of the American South, where country music legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton have left their indelible mark, you'll find the Nashville Predators, a National Hockey League (NHL) team that's been making waves in Music City, USA. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Nashville Predators, their history, their impact on the city, and what makes them a unique franchise in the world of professional hockey.
The Birth of the Predators
The Nashville Predators were born in 1997 when the NHL announced the addition of four new franchises, including Nashville, Atlanta, Columbus, and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Nashville, a city known more for its country twang than its hockey culture, might have seemed like an unlikely choice. However, the franchise quickly endeared itself to the local community.
The team's name, the "Predators," was chosen through a fan contest, reflecting the city's connection to the saber-toothed tiger skeleton, known as "Smilodon," discovered at a local construction site. This unique and somewhat menacing moniker set the stage for the franchise's identity.
Music City and Hockey Fusion
Nashville is a city steeped in music history, and the Predators have found a way to weave the spirit of Music City into their hockey games. Fans attending Predators games are treated to live music performances, showcasing Nashville's rich musical heritage. The team has successfully merged the worlds of country music and professional hockey, making it an entertainment destination for both locals and tourists.
Smashville: A Fanatical Fan Base
The Predators' home ice, the Bridgestone Arena, has gained fame for its lively atmosphere, earning the nickname "Smashville." The arena is known for its passionate fan base, which includes enthusiastic chants, catfish tossing, and the iconic "cellblock 303" – a section of fans renowned for their energy and dedication to the team.
The catfish tradition began in 2003 when Predators fans threw a catfish onto the ice during a playoff game against the Detroit Red Wings. Since then, it's become a symbol of Nashville's hockey fandom, with fans proudly participating in the tradition at key moments in games.
Success on the Ice
The Predators haven't just been about the showmanship; they've also found success on the ice. They clinched their first Central Division title in the 2003-2004 season, and since then, they've become a regular presence in the NHL playoffs. Their run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017 further solidified their reputation as a formidable team.
Key players like Pekka Rinne, Roman Josi, and Filip Forsberg have been instrumental in the team's success. Rinne, in particular, has been the face of the franchise for many years, earning accolades such as the Vezina Trophy as the league's best goaltender.
Community Engagement
The Predators have also been active in the Nashville community, emphasizing the importance of giving back. Their "Predators Foundation" supports various charitable organizations in the area, focusing on youth and family needs, education, and health and wellness. This commitment to community engagement has endeared the team to the local population.
Challenges and Growth
Like any professional sports franchise, the Predators have faced challenges. These include the occasional need to rebuild the roster, the ever-competitive Western Conference, and the pressures of sustaining success. However, their resilience and the unwavering support of their fans have allowed them to overcome these obstacles.
The Future of the Predators
As the Predators move forward, they continue to represent the unique fusion of sports and music that defines Nashville. They are committed not only to winning games but also to enriching the lives of those in their community. Whether you're a die-hard Predators fan or a casual observer of the NHL, the Nashville Predators have undoubtedly left their mark on both the hockey world and the vibrant city they call home.
In conclusion, the Nashville Predators are more than just an NHL franchise; they are a testament to the power of sports to unite and entertain. With their captivating blend of hockey and music, they've turned Music City into Hockey City, creating a legacy that will endure for years to come.
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