It is Hockey Night on Long Island as the Nashville Predators try and right the ship after two straight shutout losses that certainly turned this road trip sour in a hurry. Five out of six points has become five out of ten points fast, which makes tonight’s game even more critical. With a game against the Penguins awaiting, tonight’s tilt against the Islanders could make the difference between a successful roadie or a disappointing one.
The biggest problem with the last two losses have been the timing as most every team ahead of the Predators in the chase for the Western Conference playoffs have continued winning, they have fallen to six points off the pace for a playoff spot. As we have seen in previous seasons, it is not particularly the number of points, but leapfrogging multiple teams that will become the issue. New York is struggling. While the Preds have lost their last two, the Islanders have lost four in a row. Their trade for Thomas Vanek certainly made some ripples, but so far it hasn’t shown results and the Islanders blueline has taken multiple hits on the injury front, losing Brian Strait and Lubomir Visnovski.
The end of the CMA roadie is in sight… two more games to go before Saturday night’s showdown with Chicago in Smashville. Game time tonight is 6pm central, coverage on the Predators Radio Network flagship 102.5 the Game with Willy Daunic and Stu Grimson on the call. TV Coverage is on Fox SportSouth with the Voice of the Predators Pete Weber. Make sure to join the post game show on 102.5 the Game as I will be sitting in with Darren McFarland to break down the game.
-----------------------------------
Random Notes
- Our sympathies go out to Terry Crisp and his family. Terry’s father passed earlier this week and the Crisp family is in our thoughts and prayers… “Eternal rest grant upon him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.…
- Interesting piece on section303.com pointing out that the Predators have struggled since sending Filip Forsberg down. Coincidence? Not sure…
- Don’t forget… we announced a contest of SlapShot Radio last night, simply go to the SlapShot Radio Facebook page and “like… it… that’s it. A random fan who “likes… the page will be selected and will win two tickets to see the Predators/Blackhawks game on Saturday night November 16th. The winner will be announced on Facebook and Twitter on Wednesday.
- As a guy who grew up with the Broad Street Bullies it was long overdue to see Fred Shero inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame last night. Now it’s time to right another wrong and get Pat Burns in there where he belongs.
- A few more glaring omissions from the Hall… Phil Housley, Peter Bondra, Paul Kariya just to name a few…
- The 2014 class presents some interesting names, some that may be first ballot like Peter Forsberg and Dominik Hasek.
- Eleven games tonight, all start times central – 6pm start – Devils @ Rangers, Kings @ Sabres, Predators @ Islanders, Blue Jackets @ Capitals, Avalanche @ Hurricanes. 6:30pm starts – Lightning @ Canadiens, Flyers @ Senators, Jets @ Red Wings, Ducks @ Panthers. 7pm start – Coyotes @ Blues. 8pm start – Sharks @ Flames.
--------------------------------------
SlapShot Radio every Wednesday at 7pm central on 102.5 The Game and the SlapShot Radio Network, our latest podcast is posted featuring Stu Hackel, Matt Loughlin and Adrian Dater. No show this week due to broadcast conflicts.
Advertising packages are available, including title sponsorship! In order to reach our engaged listenership, please email me … paul@slapshotradio.com and I will get information to you.
Be a part of the SlapShot Radio Network!
--------------------------------------
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! You can also keep up with all the goings on with SlapShot Radio by following the show on Twitter @SlapShotRadio1
Also... make sure to "like" SlapShot Radio on Facebook... here's the link.
-------------------------------------
KINDLE USERS: Please subscribe to Predators Buzz, a one-stop feed for all things Predators-related on HockeyBuzz. Your subscription includes a free 14-day trial and is just 99 cents per month thereafter. For more information, click here.