Yes. I know I’m a day late. Life happens. Actually, I just got really busy on Sunday night and then was dealing with a sick baby when I was about to start writing, so here we are. No worries, the baby is all good. Just had a stomach ache. Anyways, I’ve lost track of where I am. Oh yeah, the Preds.
Maybe it’s good that I lost track because they aren’t doing so hot right now. Only two out of a possible six points this week, yet the Nashville Predators still only sit three points behind the Winnipeg Jets for first in the Central. They’re still sitting in a good spot, but you can’t help but feel that there could be more. There’s another level the Preds have yet to reach this year and they better find it quick, with only 21 games left in the season.
TRADE DEADLINE APPROACHING
The trade deadline is now less than a week away. Every day a new rumor seems to pop up. I think Poile has moved on from Panarin after his comments about testing free agency. Duchene seems like a logical fit and the Preds have been linked to him for years now. There’s also Mark Stone and Ryan Dzingel. I still believe the Predators need to add at least one more piece to be competitive in the West. I think David Poile realizes this also. At least I hope he does. Anyways, this time next week we will know what Poile did at the deadline. Until then, keep an eye on healthy scratches, optional skates, and for the love of God please check any twitter accounts for fake rumors.
BOYLE STARTING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Brian Boyle is starting to fit in nicely with the Preds. He had a nice screen on Subban’s power play goal (yes, you read that correctly) against the Red Wings. He also pitched in a goal of his own against the Canadiens. The Preds don’t need him to be a point per game player. His role is to play defense, be a big body on the ice, and help the power play by parking himself in front of the goalie. Anything else is just a gravy, but it’s nice to see him starting to contribute. The Preds will need more of it as they get to the playoffs.
THREE STARS OF THE WEEK
First Star – Viktor Arvidsson – Two more goals this week for the forward. He really has had an outstanding season so far. He just flat out produces when he’s on the ice. The Preds really have a gem in Arvi.
Second Star – Brian Boyle – His first goal as a Predator and helping out on the power play by screening the goalie. As he gets more comfortable with the team, hopefully we see more of that.
Third Star – P.K. Subban – A goal and an assist this week for Subban. He’s had a down year so far, but it sounds like he’s been battling a lot of injuries. He seems to be getting healthy and on top of his game at the right time. Keep an eye on him down the stretch.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Three more games this week as the Preds try to get back in the win column. Tuesday night, they’ll head out to Dallas to face the Stars in what has become a little bit of a heated matchup lately. On Thursday, it’s back home for a game against the Kings and Saturday afternoon, they’ll wrap up the week with a game against the Avalanche. Big week ahead with two divisional games and the trade deadline approaching. We’ll keep you updated as news happens.
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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