Predators Ready for Home Opener
By Buddy Oakes
After a somewhat surprising win in Dallas last Saturday, the Nashville Predators return to the Sommet Center for their home opener against the Colorado Avalanche, Thursday night at 7 p.m.
In the the franchise's 11-year history, The Predators have had only four wins in Dallas, so coming home with a 3-2 shoot-out victory was a great way to open the season.
Saturday’s win was costly to the Predators as first line winger J.P. Dumont was knocked to the ice on a hit early in the game, by Dallas defenceman Stephane Robidas. Dumont has yet to return to the ice and is listed as day-to-day.
Second year winger, Patric Hornqvist filled in admirably for Dumont against the Stars and is slated to skate on the top line with Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan.
Saturday night’s hero was rookie Mike Santorelli who scored the game winning shootout goal. He will skate with David Legwand and Marty Erat on the Pred’s second line. Dan Ellis, who started in goal in the first game, will again get the call for the home opener. Barry Trotz announced that last year’s rookie sensation, Pekka Rinne will start on Saturday against Buffalo.
Groin injuries have hampered several Predators ability to take to the ice in the last couple of weeks. Jordin Tootoo and rookie Colin Wilson are not expected to play this weekend. Coach Barry Trotz is hopeful that Joel Ward will return from his groin injury to play the opener. If he is unable to go, the Predators will have to recall a player from its Milwaukee AHL team to fill out the 20-man roster for the game. Triston Grant, Nick Spalling, or Andreas Thuresson have been mentioned as possible replacements.
The Colorado Avalanche are off to a surprising start with wins over Western Conference powers San Jose and Vancouver. Goalie Craig Anderson, who was in net during the two wins, is questionable for Wednesday night's game, as he is also suffering from a groin injury. Peter Budaj will start in goal if Anderson is unable to go.
Colorado is a young team, guided by first year coach Joe Sacco. In rebuilding mode, the Avs feature two rookies from June’s draft of 18-year-olds. Matt Duchene, drafted third, was coveted by many. Ryan O’Reilly, brother of Pred prospect Cal O’Reilly, also made the Avalanche roster.
After Thursday’s opener, the Predators will play Buffalo on Saturday and Edmonton on Monday, as they continue the opening weekend festivities.
Scatchard Signing… On Wednesday, the Nashville Predators announced the signing of former NHL centre, Dave Scatchard, to a one-year, two-way contract. After passing through waivers, Scatchard reported to Milwaukee of the AHL. The 33-year-old is a veteran of 635 NHL games, but did not play last season. It is not clear what plans the Predators have for the six foot three, 210 pounder, who last played in the NHL for Phoenix in 2007.
