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| Nashville Predators | Phoenix Coyotes |
Location: Jobing.com Arena
Start Time: 7:00p.m. MST
TV: FSN AZ
Radio: AM 1510
The Nashville Predators will visit Jobing.com Arena tonight in an important game for both teams. (Which ones aren't?) Phoenix and Nashville are neck and neck in the standings at the moment and it would be nice to pick up a couple of points on them.
Phoenix has lost it's last 2 games in OT, but have 6 out of 8 points over the last 4 games. WHile the OTLs may have been frustrating, The team played pretty well in both of those games and at least came away with something. Bryz has looked a lot better as of late and will be starting his 7th game in a row. Enver Lisin could be back in the lineup as he was skating with the team yesterday after not traveling to Dallas due to some flu-like symptoms. Other than that the Coyotes are free of any injuries, at least any that will keep anyone out.
Players to watch --- Goaltending is always important, but it's crucial that Bryz start off well to build up the confidence again. Don't let in that 1st period softie that he likes to let get by. Shane Doan has started off the season playing very well and needs to keep it up. He hasn't had that normal early year slump and it's really helped the team. If Lisin suits up tonight I'd keep an eye on him too. Well maybe two eyes as if you don't he might already be at the other end of the ice.
The Preds will hopefully have a little bit of rust to shake off at the beginning of the game after being off for 5 days. If the Coyotes can pounce on the early they could put this one away fast. Nashville will likely start Dan Ellis in goal tonight. He's been playing fairly well and is 2-0-0 against Phoenix in his career.
On the injury front Nashville is looking fairly good as well as they are only missing Steve Sullivan, who's been out since the preseason with a back injury.