During the hue and cry over the Zdeno Chara hit on Max Pacioretty there were passionate opinions expressed on both sides of the issue. "Chara is a thug"; "Patches faked the severity of his injury" were some of the tamer comments expressed by fans of the Canadiens and the Bruins.
Sometimes, the comments and opinions degenerated into venom and hatred. Actually, they often did.
Where does the line get crossed between a passionate attitude and rooting interest for your favorite team and into the poisoned, angry rhetoric that sometimes emerges between fans? How does passionate support keep from becoming angry vitriol?
My good friend, C.J. Shepard, who covers the Bruins for Hockey Independent and is a passionate Bruins fan, wrote a thoughtful and very well written piece on this subject. Her article appeared on the All Habs blog (www.allhabs.net) after the Chara/Pacioretty incident and before the Bruins and Canadiens played again. With her permission, I have reprinted it in its entirety.
It gives fans of all teams something to think about.
If I said, “I HATE THE HABS,”‘ or “Hab fans are Habitards,” or perhaps this little gem, “Scab fans are classless,” does that make me a better or TRUE Bruins’ fan? Believe me when I tell you if, as recently as a month ago, someone had asked me what is the BEST thing about social networking, and Twitter in particular, I would have responded, “Getting to share my love of the greatest game on earth with other passionate fans.”
Yet, the past month I have seen my team, my position as a fan, and individual players come under attack. Some of those attacks are from passionate fans who wear their colors proudly and feel the need to defend their team’s honor. Other attacks have come from people who watch nothing more than a highlight, listen to a soundbite, or read an article slanted from a single writer’s view.
Have fans always worn the colored blinders of their team? Absolutely, myself included! However, in this information age it has become increasingly about hate, venom, poison pen blogs, and painting every fan and player on a team with the same broad brush. Yes, teams and their fans have their identity, their style, their persona, but would it be the end to rivalries as we know them for it to include some small element of respect?
A bright and intelligent Hab fan, and fellow writer, posted a link to an eloquent piece by McGill University Principal and Vice Chancellor, Heather Munroe-Blum, in which she urges all of us to resist the urge to feed into the hate.
Munroe-Blum notes, “I have become increasingly concerned by the general societal escalation of rhetorical excess, the distortions in political arguments, and the harsh tenor of discourse, intended apparently, to demonize and destroy.” (entire article http://publications.mcgill.ca/reporter/2011/03/mcgill-stands-firmly-for-tolerance-–-but-just-as-strongly-against-hate/)
There is little doubt in my mind that the Mainstream Media (now lovingly referred to as M$M) is not only aware of this societal shift, but plays to it, and is no longer treated in reporting facts, but sensationalizing information for ratings. As we have witnessed first hand, the M$M has become as big a part of the story as anything that has happened in the game itself.
I have witnessed so called “sports radio” hosts inciting 911 calls, and others on the opposite side of the coin lobbing ethnic slurs across the border in response. These shows are no long “sports discussions,” but a boiling cauldron of hate seeming incapable of discussing much of anything intelligently, and even less capable of accepting a dissenting opinion as potential valuable or insightful.
Their goal: stir the hate and raise ratings, regardless of the potential threat of any backlash. Drown the voices of reason, and any member of the media who dares tread in the unpopular view contrary to the vocal fan base might be tolerated, but only as a temporary distraction or a commercial interruption prior to their vitriol filled rantings.
Fans want to hear from players and not have them trot out the all too familiar and safe cliche phrases, “We need to play our game,” “The two points are the most important thing tonight,” “We need to protect the puck and generate scoring chances,” on and on and on. So when a well respected veteran turns the tables on the media and fans and utilizes the power of the spoken word to change the tide of controversy, people were surprised?
I spoke out against the comments made by Mark Recchi, for the context I knew they would be perceived, and because I truly believed there was a better way to shift the pitchfork wielding masses from chasing Bruins’ Captain, Zdeno Chara on the eve of the rematch. However, no one, regardless if they believed Recchi’s remarks were ill-conceived or based in some locker room talk, can honestly say they were ineffective. The media pounced, vilifying Recchi for the temerity to question a rival organization’s injury report; which for the record ALL NHL organizations have been guilty of far less than accurate injury reporting.
Others celebrated his remarks for saying what many were allegedly whispering around the game. Both are extremes, and the media and social networking once again made a non-story THE story. The shouting commenced, and any reasonable and rational criticism was immediately cast aside for the more favorable, “The Bruins are complete scum and have proved it again,” and “We know the Habs are all fakers, remember Ribeiro?”
What was lost in the last 48 hours was a game, an important one in the Northeast Division standings, and with weighty playoff implications. What was also lost? Perspective. That same remark made 25 years ago stays local, and who knows, is probably never even spoken, because the sideshow distraction would not have been necessary. But hate sells, and the faster it is spread, the higher the ratings, and the higher the ratings the more money there is to be made. “Die Chara Die” t-shirts, are not quite the same as the rivalry merchandise of “Habs Suck” t-shirts which have been sold for decades.
So where is the line between hated rivals and respected rivals? Is it possible for teams and fans to “hate” without the violent undertones of wishing someone to “break their neck” or be killed for wearing a jersey or supporting a team? Is there a way to return the “healthy” hate to this Bruins and Canadiens rivalry which seems to be too much like a runaway train?
Here’s an idea: pause before you assume you know what the fan or player intended to say, and put your mouth or fingers in neutral before you add gasoline to the fire. Accept that you might be allowing your black and gold or red and blue glasses to color your view. Last but not least, remember it wouldn’t take much for your team to be on the other side of the coin – and if you have been a fan for any length of time, you can probably remember without too much trouble a moment where that is certainly true. Our teams are like us – human, and certainly not beyond reproach, and certainly not perfect!
I have the privilege of sharing my love for the greatest game on earth with people around the globe, and yes…even north of the boarder! With this in mind I proposed a little “friendly wager” to one of my favorite Habs fans, Michael Kuyaz (a member of the All Habs team), last night to see if we could use our Twitter and blogging platform to harness the power of the GREATEST rivalry in sport for a good cause. With the playoffs on the horizon, I suggested that the “loser” make a donation to the winning team’s charitable foundation. As all of us fans know, our teams do great work in our communities, and it becomes just another positive way to show our undying allegiance to our teams!
There will be details to follow and links for pledges, but for now my deepest hope is that as fans we can wrestle back control of this rivalry, return the healthy respect, and yes, even loathing for our opponent, without the veiled threats, venom, and vilification of our teams and fellow hockey fans.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Stars Stymied by the Predators 4-2
The Nashville Predators defeated the Dallas Stars and Mike Leggo and Brad Watson, the referees, 4-2 for their 6th straight win at the Bridgestone Arena. The win runs the Predators record to 41-25-10, good for 92 points and 6th in the Western Conference.
This was another critical win for the Predators as they defeated a team that is chasing them in the race for a playoff position. The Predators entered the game with a 2 point lead over the Stars, and when the night was over had stretched that lead to 6 points. With the Predators fighting for playoff position, every game is vital, and it is even more so when playing a team that is chasing them in the standings. Taking care of business was essential for the Predators.
Take care of business they did.
Dallas opened the scoring at 8:49 of the first period as Alex Goligoski tallied with a quick wrist shot over the shoulder of Pekka Rinne. The Stars got the man advantage as Sergei Kostitsyn was in the box for high sticking.
The 1-0 lead did not look good for the Predators as Dallas was working their trap effectively and clogging the neutral zone and not allowing the Predators to enter the zone cleanly. The Dallas trap was especially effective in throttling the Predators offense early in the contest.
The Predators would finally settle down and would start to solve the Stars trap game as the first period wore on. Their effort would pay off at 14:26 of the first period as Martin Erat would fire a shot on Dallas netminder Kari Lehtonen. Lehtonen kicked out the rebound and David Legwand was the beneficiary as he drove hard to the net and jammed home the rebound under Lehtonen's pad to tie the game with his 16th goal of the year.
The Predators would take a 2-1 lead at 2:33 of the second period as Mike Fisher would rip a wrist shot over the shoulder of Lehtonen and off the post and into the net. Fisher's shot was a rocket that Lehtonen saw but could not stop. This was Fisher's 16th goal of the season and his second as a Predator, and it was good to see the hard working forward get back on the score sheet.
Dallas would tie the game on what can only be called a fluky goal. Brendon Morrow flipped the puck from behind the net toward the goal. It hit the stick of Blake Geoffrion and spun wildly over the net, where it hit the back of Rinne and fell into the net at 4:07 of the second.
Goals are goals, but damn, I'm tired of seeing the Predators victimized by bizarre goals.
The play was set up by a blatant trip on Predators defenseman Shea Weber that was not called. Both the aforementioned officials Leggo and Watson inexplicably chose to ignore the trip that set up the Stars scoring opportunity. This was the first of several suspect calls by these officials.
The Predators continued to break the Dallas trap and generate some quality chances. The Predators had a scoring opportunity late in the second as the line of Jerred Smithson, Nick Spaling, and Jordin Tootoo created some offensive zone presence. Tootoo drove the net searching for a centering pass from Spaling and was tackled into the net by a Dallas defenseman.
I will let you guess if there was a call against the Stars.
Anyone?
If you said there was no call, you would be right.
The Predators would take a 3-2 lead at 9:07 of the second period as Ryan Suter fired a shot that Lehtonen blocked with his pad. Mike Fisher was cruising across the low slot and gathered in the rebound and fired a backhand shot into the open net for his second goal of the game and his 17th of the season.
There was no further scoring in the second period, but with a one goal lead, Predator nation could not rest easy going into the third period.
The Predators did a great job in the third period of limiting the chances of the Stars, forcing them to the perimeter for many of their shots. When the Stars did get a quality chance, Rinne was there to clean up the chances.
The third period was a punch/counter-punch period, with the Predators limiting the Stars opportunities and the Stars thwarting the Predators offensive chances. As the period wound down, the game was in the balance.
Once again, Watson and Leggo would do their best to tip the balance in favor of the Stars. With just 2 minutes remaining in the contest, Ryan Suter was called for a brutal and phantom hooking call on a great check. The final minutes of the contest would see the Predators down a man.
Gut check time for the Predators, a test of their character.
And they would pass the test with flying colors. In spite of the officiating.
The Predators PK did not let the Stars get into any rhythm and rarely let them gain the zone with any speed. The penalty killers were able to clear the zone effectively and not let the Stars get established in their offense.
Dallas would pull Lehtonen to give the Stars a 6 on 4 advantage, but it was to no avail. The Predators cleared the puck to David Legwand, who potted an empty netter with 4 seconds remaining in the period.
Game over.
More importantly, game over and two huge points for the Predators, who continue to cement a playoff position. This was a game that was a test of character and mental toughness, one that saw the Predators face a team that was desperate and chasing them in the standings. The ability of the Predators to overcome a talented Stars squad and horrific officiating speaks well to their character and their mental toughness.
A word about the 7th man- the fans at the Bridgestone Arena. There is no other arena in the NHL that has fans respond like the Predator nation. The standing ovation during the television timeout is becoming known throughout the league. It encourages the home team and intimidates the visitors. One can look at the visiting team bench and see them looking around with a "WTF" expression and reaction at the outpouring of emotion and enthusiasm of the home crowd. One can also look at the Predator players and see them respond as well. They are energized by the crowd. They are one with their fans who are in full throat and willing their team to a greater effort and to victory. Tonight, the 7th man came through again.
Six straight wins feels good. The job is not done. There are more points to gather and positioning to be determined.
Keep playing with this kind of effort and you will continue to stymie your opponents.
My three stars:
1. Mike Fisher
2. David Legwand
3. Patric Hornqvist
This was another critical win for the Predators as they defeated a team that is chasing them in the race for a playoff position. The Predators entered the game with a 2 point lead over the Stars, and when the night was over had stretched that lead to 6 points. With the Predators fighting for playoff position, every game is vital, and it is even more so when playing a team that is chasing them in the standings. Taking care of business was essential for the Predators.
Take care of business they did.
Dallas opened the scoring at 8:49 of the first period as Alex Goligoski tallied with a quick wrist shot over the shoulder of Pekka Rinne. The Stars got the man advantage as Sergei Kostitsyn was in the box for high sticking.
The 1-0 lead did not look good for the Predators as Dallas was working their trap effectively and clogging the neutral zone and not allowing the Predators to enter the zone cleanly. The Dallas trap was especially effective in throttling the Predators offense early in the contest.
The Predators would finally settle down and would start to solve the Stars trap game as the first period wore on. Their effort would pay off at 14:26 of the first period as Martin Erat would fire a shot on Dallas netminder Kari Lehtonen. Lehtonen kicked out the rebound and David Legwand was the beneficiary as he drove hard to the net and jammed home the rebound under Lehtonen's pad to tie the game with his 16th goal of the year.
The Predators would take a 2-1 lead at 2:33 of the second period as Mike Fisher would rip a wrist shot over the shoulder of Lehtonen and off the post and into the net. Fisher's shot was a rocket that Lehtonen saw but could not stop. This was Fisher's 16th goal of the season and his second as a Predator, and it was good to see the hard working forward get back on the score sheet.
Dallas would tie the game on what can only be called a fluky goal. Brendon Morrow flipped the puck from behind the net toward the goal. It hit the stick of Blake Geoffrion and spun wildly over the net, where it hit the back of Rinne and fell into the net at 4:07 of the second.
Goals are goals, but damn, I'm tired of seeing the Predators victimized by bizarre goals.
The play was set up by a blatant trip on Predators defenseman Shea Weber that was not called. Both the aforementioned officials Leggo and Watson inexplicably chose to ignore the trip that set up the Stars scoring opportunity. This was the first of several suspect calls by these officials.
The Predators continued to break the Dallas trap and generate some quality chances. The Predators had a scoring opportunity late in the second as the line of Jerred Smithson, Nick Spaling, and Jordin Tootoo created some offensive zone presence. Tootoo drove the net searching for a centering pass from Spaling and was tackled into the net by a Dallas defenseman.
I will let you guess if there was a call against the Stars.
Anyone?
If you said there was no call, you would be right.
The Predators would take a 3-2 lead at 9:07 of the second period as Ryan Suter fired a shot that Lehtonen blocked with his pad. Mike Fisher was cruising across the low slot and gathered in the rebound and fired a backhand shot into the open net for his second goal of the game and his 17th of the season.
There was no further scoring in the second period, but with a one goal lead, Predator nation could not rest easy going into the third period.
The Predators did a great job in the third period of limiting the chances of the Stars, forcing them to the perimeter for many of their shots. When the Stars did get a quality chance, Rinne was there to clean up the chances.
The third period was a punch/counter-punch period, with the Predators limiting the Stars opportunities and the Stars thwarting the Predators offensive chances. As the period wound down, the game was in the balance.
Once again, Watson and Leggo would do their best to tip the balance in favor of the Stars. With just 2 minutes remaining in the contest, Ryan Suter was called for a brutal and phantom hooking call on a great check. The final minutes of the contest would see the Predators down a man.
Gut check time for the Predators, a test of their character.
And they would pass the test with flying colors. In spite of the officiating.
The Predators PK did not let the Stars get into any rhythm and rarely let them gain the zone with any speed. The penalty killers were able to clear the zone effectively and not let the Stars get established in their offense.
Dallas would pull Lehtonen to give the Stars a 6 on 4 advantage, but it was to no avail. The Predators cleared the puck to David Legwand, who potted an empty netter with 4 seconds remaining in the period.
Game over.
More importantly, game over and two huge points for the Predators, who continue to cement a playoff position. This was a game that was a test of character and mental toughness, one that saw the Predators face a team that was desperate and chasing them in the standings. The ability of the Predators to overcome a talented Stars squad and horrific officiating speaks well to their character and their mental toughness.
A word about the 7th man- the fans at the Bridgestone Arena. There is no other arena in the NHL that has fans respond like the Predator nation. The standing ovation during the television timeout is becoming known throughout the league. It encourages the home team and intimidates the visitors. One can look at the visiting team bench and see them looking around with a "WTF" expression and reaction at the outpouring of emotion and enthusiasm of the home crowd. One can also look at the Predator players and see them respond as well. They are energized by the crowd. They are one with their fans who are in full throat and willing their team to a greater effort and to victory. Tonight, the 7th man came through again.
Six straight wins feels good. The job is not done. There are more points to gather and positioning to be determined.
Keep playing with this kind of effort and you will continue to stymie your opponents.
My three stars:
1. Mike Fisher
2. David Legwand
3. Patric Hornqvist
Friday, March 25, 2011
My View
Random ruminations from your resident curmudgeon...
It goes without saying that the appetite of government for your money is voracious. There is no area of your life or your income that is off limits when it comes to subjecting you to additional taxes to fund a bloated and inefficient government at all levels. The latest proposed assault on you and me? Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad (D North Dakota) has requested that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) review the efficacy of taxing all Americans based on the miles they drive their vehicle. The Vehicle Mileage Tax (VMT) would be assessed on all vehicles, personal and commercial, based on the number of miles that are driven, whether for personal or business reasons. According to the CBO report, new cars would be fitted with a device as standard equipment that would track the mileage driven, and older cars would be required to be retrofitted with the device. The proposal suggests that all gas pumps be fitted with a device that would read the mileage driven and collect the tax when the vehicle is filled. Ostensibly, the tax would recoup the cost of repairing and maintaining our highway system. However, according to the CBO report, there are other costs that should be considered, such as noise and air pollution, dependence on foreign oil, and congestion. One can see that these "costs" are subjective and open every driver to a vast array of new taxes. The Senate will take up a new transportation bill later this year, one that includes an additional $556 billion in new spending. It would be wise for all of us to follow this bill as it is debated later this year.
If a parsley farmer is sued, can they garnish his wages?
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) impacts much of American life with their involvement in supposedly protecting the constitutional rights of groups and individuals. Notably, they have been involved in many cases that center around the freedom of religious expression. The ACLU has been successful in removing Christmas trees and creches from the public square under the guise of a false claim that those displays are an establishment or promotion of religion by a governmental body. It is instructive to look at the origins of the ACLU to understand their motives for such action. Here is a direct quote from founder Roger Baldwin,
"I am for socialism, disarmament, and ultimately for abolishing the state itself. I seek the social ownership of property, the abolition of the propertied class, and the sole control of those who produce wealth. Communism is the goal."
Interesting, isn't it? One of the cornerstones of communism is the curtailing of religious freedom, principally the free exercise of Christianity. Don't believe me? The high priest of Communism, Karl Marx, once said,
"The first requisite for the happiness of the people is the abolition of religion."
The ACLU often cites the Establishment Clause of the first amendment to constitution as a basis for their actions. The reality is that the Establishment Clause was written by the framers of our Constitution with the sole intent that Congress cannot establish a national religion such as was the Anglican Church of England. Thomas Jefferson specifically stated that the Establishment Clause was intended to preclude the establishment of a particular form of Christianity by Congressional leaders in the newly created United States. The perversion of the interpretation of the Establishment Clause by the ACLU and by the courts has been used to limit religious freedom and expression in this country. This is contrary to the intentions of the Founders of our nation. One should closely examine the motivations of the ACLU in light of their DNA and their founding principals the next time they claim they are defending religious freedom.
Old is when someone compliments you on your alligator shoes and you are barefoot.
Want to know how serious those in Washington are about cutting spending and restoring fiscal sanity to our finances? Here are the sad facts: Washington is borrowing $4 billion a DAY to finance our deficits. In the latest round of budget negotiations, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D Nevada) proposed cutting the budget for the coming fiscal year by $4.7 billion dollars. FOR THE ENTIRE FISCAL YEAR! The Democrats in Washington have proposed cutting our deficit spending by a mere .004% based on our annual deficits of $1.6 trillion dollars. Senate Republicans proposed cutting the fiscal year spending by $61 billion, which frankly is not enough, even if it is a step in the right direction. Reid called these cuts "draconian". Republicans and Democrats both need to grasp the dire state of our nation's financial situation and make substantive cuts to the budget and rein in future spending. Failure to do so is an abdication of their responsibility as leaders and does not bode well for the taxpayers wallet.
What is the difference between a man and a government bond? Bonds mature.
And that, my friends, is my view.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Predators Down the Ducks 5-4
The Nashville Predators scored three first period goals and needed every one of them as they held off the Anaheim Ducks 5-4 for their fifth straight win. With the win, the Predators now have 90 points and currently sit in fifth place in the Western Conference. The victory snapped Anaheim's four game win streak, and more importantly stretched their lead over the Ducks to three points and two points over Chicago and Los Angeles, who is playing at this time.
The Predators opened the game with a very strong effort against Anaheim netminder Jonas Hiller, who was making his first appearance after missing 16 games due to suffering from vertigo. The lack of playing time would show for Hiller, as he allowed three goals on just seven shots.
Sergei Kostitsyn open the scoring for the Predators at 2:04 of the first period as Patric Hornqvist took a shot from the right side of the net that leaked between the post and Hiller and was laying in the blue paint. Kostitsyn drove the net and tapped the puck home into a wide open net for a 1-0 Predators lead.
The Predators would extend the lead to 2-0 at 11:18 of the first when Jonathan Blum fired a shot wide of the net and Nick Spaling jumped on the rebound off the end boards and shoved the puck under th pad of Hiller for his 8th goal of the season. This was a smart play by Blum to put the puck in a scoring position and a great hustle play by Spaling to get to the puck and jam it under Hiller's pad.
Just 19 seconds later, the Predators would stretch the lead to 3-0 as Patric Hornqvist would launch a shot toward the net that Sergei Kostitsyn would re-direct past Hiller. 7 shots and three goals and the rusty Hiller would enjoy the rest of the night from the bench as former Predator Dan Ellis would come in to replace the shell shocked starter.
Anaheim would cut the deficit to 3-1 at 16:11 of the first as Corey Perry was left alone at the side of the net. Bobby Ryan found him with a quick pass and he jammed it into the open net past a defenseless Pekka Rinne. The defensive coverage broke down and Rinne had no chance with Perry stationed alone at the side of the net.
The Predators dominated the second period, limiting the Ducks to just five shots on goal and controlling the play in the neutral zone and in the defensive zone. The Predators generated some great offensive chances and were frustrated by Ellis, who made some great saves to keep the Predators off the board.
Rinne was not often challenged, but made a key glove save on a breakaway by Andreas Lilja to keep the Ducks scoreless. Rinne has owned the Ducks this season, and it appeared that the Ducks knew they could not solve the Finnish wall.
The Predators ran their advantage to 4-1 as Jordin Tootoo tallied his fifth goal of the season. Shane O'Brien fed the puck to Tootoo in traffic in the low slot, and he managed to get the shot off and it hit Ellis on the inside of his left leg and found the back of the net. Tootoo played a strong game and was rewarded for his efforts with the marker at 18:20 of the second.
In the third period, the Predators would make the score 5-1 with a short handed goal by David Legwand. With Shane O'Brien in the box for delay of game, Legwand broke into the offensive zone with Joel Ward. Ward drove to the net and was screened Dan Ellis. Legwand ripped a shot that hit the far side post and then into the net as Ward was checked into Ellis by Saku Koivu but Ward was called for goaltender interference after the score. A bizarre call to say the least.
The Ducks would score just 10 seconds later on the 5 on 3 power play as Teemu Selanne tallied his 24th goal of the season.
Selanne would notch his second 5 on 3 goal at 15:14 of the third to cut the lead to 5-3 Predators. The puck was tipped off the stick of Ryan Suter past Rinne, who had no chance on the re-directed puck. Frankly, Anaheim was not going to score unless it was the Predators allowing them to score with their mistakes.
And the Predators would make a lot of mistakes in the third period.
Corey Perry would strike again at 19:34 of the third period to make it 5-4. On this weird score, Ryan Suter would try to kick the fluttering shot of Perry out of harms way, but instead would kick the puck over the shoulder of Rinne and into the net.
The Predators would hold off Anaheim for the final 26 seconds to secure an all important win and gather the two precious points, but dang, that third period was stressful.
The truth is that the Predators dominated the Ducks, and if they had not made in essence two scores for the Ducks, the game would have been a rout. Perhaps more importantly, the Predators have to realize they cannot let teams climb back into games with them. The Predators were guilty of opening the door for the Ducks with penalties and with scores on their own goalie.
Fortunately for the Predators, their offensive explosion was enough to vanquish the Ducks. Play this haphazardly against the teams that remain on the schedule and the outcome will not be as favorable.
It goes without saying this was a big win for the Predators, not only from the standings but from a mental aspect as well. This was a challenge for this team, one that could very well determine a playoff spot. The Ducks were coming off an improbable win against Dallas the night before and had momentum. The Predators jumped on the Ducks early and kept the pressure up throughout the game. Erase the last 10 minutes of the contest and this was a textbook game.
You can't, however, erase those last 10 minutes. What the team can do is learn from the mistakes that were made and correct them. The remaining games on the schedule are going to be a war, and it will be imperative for this team to correct these types of mistakes and bring their best effort.
The bottom line: the Predators won the game and picked up the points. Build on this momentum and take care of business when Dallas comes to town.
My three stars:
1. Sergei Kostitsyn
2. Corey Perry
3. Teemu Selanne
Honorable mention:
Patric Hornqvist
Dishonorable mention:
Ryan Suter (scoring two goals for the Ducks)
The Predators opened the game with a very strong effort against Anaheim netminder Jonas Hiller, who was making his first appearance after missing 16 games due to suffering from vertigo. The lack of playing time would show for Hiller, as he allowed three goals on just seven shots.
Sergei Kostitsyn open the scoring for the Predators at 2:04 of the first period as Patric Hornqvist took a shot from the right side of the net that leaked between the post and Hiller and was laying in the blue paint. Kostitsyn drove the net and tapped the puck home into a wide open net for a 1-0 Predators lead.
The Predators would extend the lead to 2-0 at 11:18 of the first when Jonathan Blum fired a shot wide of the net and Nick Spaling jumped on the rebound off the end boards and shoved the puck under th pad of Hiller for his 8th goal of the season. This was a smart play by Blum to put the puck in a scoring position and a great hustle play by Spaling to get to the puck and jam it under Hiller's pad.
Just 19 seconds later, the Predators would stretch the lead to 3-0 as Patric Hornqvist would launch a shot toward the net that Sergei Kostitsyn would re-direct past Hiller. 7 shots and three goals and the rusty Hiller would enjoy the rest of the night from the bench as former Predator Dan Ellis would come in to replace the shell shocked starter.
Anaheim would cut the deficit to 3-1 at 16:11 of the first as Corey Perry was left alone at the side of the net. Bobby Ryan found him with a quick pass and he jammed it into the open net past a defenseless Pekka Rinne. The defensive coverage broke down and Rinne had no chance with Perry stationed alone at the side of the net.
The Predators dominated the second period, limiting the Ducks to just five shots on goal and controlling the play in the neutral zone and in the defensive zone. The Predators generated some great offensive chances and were frustrated by Ellis, who made some great saves to keep the Predators off the board.
Rinne was not often challenged, but made a key glove save on a breakaway by Andreas Lilja to keep the Ducks scoreless. Rinne has owned the Ducks this season, and it appeared that the Ducks knew they could not solve the Finnish wall.
The Predators ran their advantage to 4-1 as Jordin Tootoo tallied his fifth goal of the season. Shane O'Brien fed the puck to Tootoo in traffic in the low slot, and he managed to get the shot off and it hit Ellis on the inside of his left leg and found the back of the net. Tootoo played a strong game and was rewarded for his efforts with the marker at 18:20 of the second.
In the third period, the Predators would make the score 5-1 with a short handed goal by David Legwand. With Shane O'Brien in the box for delay of game, Legwand broke into the offensive zone with Joel Ward. Ward drove to the net and was screened Dan Ellis. Legwand ripped a shot that hit the far side post and then into the net as Ward was checked into Ellis by Saku Koivu but Ward was called for goaltender interference after the score. A bizarre call to say the least.
The Ducks would score just 10 seconds later on the 5 on 3 power play as Teemu Selanne tallied his 24th goal of the season.
Selanne would notch his second 5 on 3 goal at 15:14 of the third to cut the lead to 5-3 Predators. The puck was tipped off the stick of Ryan Suter past Rinne, who had no chance on the re-directed puck. Frankly, Anaheim was not going to score unless it was the Predators allowing them to score with their mistakes.
And the Predators would make a lot of mistakes in the third period.
Corey Perry would strike again at 19:34 of the third period to make it 5-4. On this weird score, Ryan Suter would try to kick the fluttering shot of Perry out of harms way, but instead would kick the puck over the shoulder of Rinne and into the net.
The Predators would hold off Anaheim for the final 26 seconds to secure an all important win and gather the two precious points, but dang, that third period was stressful.
The truth is that the Predators dominated the Ducks, and if they had not made in essence two scores for the Ducks, the game would have been a rout. Perhaps more importantly, the Predators have to realize they cannot let teams climb back into games with them. The Predators were guilty of opening the door for the Ducks with penalties and with scores on their own goalie.
Fortunately for the Predators, their offensive explosion was enough to vanquish the Ducks. Play this haphazardly against the teams that remain on the schedule and the outcome will not be as favorable.
It goes without saying this was a big win for the Predators, not only from the standings but from a mental aspect as well. This was a challenge for this team, one that could very well determine a playoff spot. The Ducks were coming off an improbable win against Dallas the night before and had momentum. The Predators jumped on the Ducks early and kept the pressure up throughout the game. Erase the last 10 minutes of the contest and this was a textbook game.
You can't, however, erase those last 10 minutes. What the team can do is learn from the mistakes that were made and correct them. The remaining games on the schedule are going to be a war, and it will be imperative for this team to correct these types of mistakes and bring their best effort.
The bottom line: the Predators won the game and picked up the points. Build on this momentum and take care of business when Dallas comes to town.
My three stars:
1. Sergei Kostitsyn
2. Corey Perry
3. Teemu Selanne
Honorable mention:
Patric Hornqvist
Dishonorable mention:
Ryan Suter (scoring two goals for the Ducks)
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Predators Eclispse Edmonton 3-1
The Nashville Predators defeated the Edmonton Oilers 3-1 in a game that at times featured surgical precision by the Predators, at times was workmanlike, and at times was frankly tedious. With the win, the Predators ran their record to 39-25-10 and are tied with Los Angeles for 5th with 88 points.
The Predators opened the scoring at 4:08 of the first period as Joel Ward drew the defense and Edmonton netminder Devan Dubnyk to him as he drove the net. Ward slipped a beautiful pass to Martin Erat who buried a shot into the open net to put the Predators up 1-0.
That score was significant for the Predators because in their previous losses to the Oilers they had poured shots on the Edmonton net but had not been able to solve Dubnyk. Scoring first lifted the onus of not scoring off the Predators and built their confidence. They now knew they could score against Dubnyk, and more importantly, put the struggling Oilers in an early hole.
The Predators continued to pressure the Oilers, and with Kurtis Foster in the box for tripping, made them pay on the power play. Patric Hornqvist took a nice drop pass from Sergei Kostitsyn and banged a puck off the post and into the net at 7:40 of the first period to give the Predators a 2-0 lead.
The Predators played an excellent first period of hockey, firing 15 shots at Dubnyk, while Nashville netminder Pekka Rinne was hardly tested as the Oilers were only able to muster 5 shots on goal.
In the second period, the Oilers came out with more jump and controlled the puck on the cycle for lengthy stretches in the period. The Predators defense did a good job of keeping the Oilers to the perimeter and rarely allowing good scoring chances, but the Oilers were controlling the puck. For Predator fans, there was concern about the lack of offensive push.
That would change at 13:00 of the second as David Legwand took a stretch pass from Ryan Suter and drove the low slot. Legwand lifted a backhand that beat Dubnyk high glove side to give the Predators a 3-0 lead on their first shot of the second period.
Edmonton cut the deficit to 3-1 on the power play. Sergei Kostitsyn took a lazy tripping penalty at 8:45 of the second. Andrew Cogliano fired a shot from the low slot that Rinne kicked out with his right pad, but the rebound came right to Jordan Eberle who buried the shot at 9:38.
In the second period, the Oilers outshot the Predators 7 to 5, with each team able to tally a goal. Although the Predators had a 2 goal lead, it was going to be important to come out and control play in the third period and capture the victory and the all important 2 points.
The Predators did just that. Edmonton did not record their first shot on goal until there was only 3:23 remaining in the period. The Predators defense forced the Oilers to the outside and did not give them any quality chances.
When the Oilers did generate chances late in the period, Rinne was sharp. The save of the night came when Rinne made an outstanding glove save on a follow up shot by Tom Gilbert from the low slot.
The Predators outshot the Oilers 10-8 in the period, and most of the shots the Oilers created were with the extra attacker late in the period.
This was a big win for the Predators because this was a game they should have won and because the Oilers have vexed the Predators this season. These are the types of games that can be a mental test, but the Predators were equal to the task.
The level of competition is going to get tougher for the Predators with Anaheim, Dallas, and Vancouver coming to town in the next three games. There are areas that the Predators will need to improve upon, notably puck management. Nevertheless, this is a win the Predators can savor.
With the upcoming games and the tight playoff race, it is going to be important for the Predators to be focused, mentally tough, and physically ready to compete. This is a team that seems to have reclaimed their mojo, and they are going to have to bring it in the next three games.
Your fate is in your hands, boys. Seize the opportunity.
My three stars:
1. David Legwand
2. Martin Erat
3. Pekka Rinne
The Predators opened the scoring at 4:08 of the first period as Joel Ward drew the defense and Edmonton netminder Devan Dubnyk to him as he drove the net. Ward slipped a beautiful pass to Martin Erat who buried a shot into the open net to put the Predators up 1-0.
That score was significant for the Predators because in their previous losses to the Oilers they had poured shots on the Edmonton net but had not been able to solve Dubnyk. Scoring first lifted the onus of not scoring off the Predators and built their confidence. They now knew they could score against Dubnyk, and more importantly, put the struggling Oilers in an early hole.
The Predators continued to pressure the Oilers, and with Kurtis Foster in the box for tripping, made them pay on the power play. Patric Hornqvist took a nice drop pass from Sergei Kostitsyn and banged a puck off the post and into the net at 7:40 of the first period to give the Predators a 2-0 lead.
The Predators played an excellent first period of hockey, firing 15 shots at Dubnyk, while Nashville netminder Pekka Rinne was hardly tested as the Oilers were only able to muster 5 shots on goal.
In the second period, the Oilers came out with more jump and controlled the puck on the cycle for lengthy stretches in the period. The Predators defense did a good job of keeping the Oilers to the perimeter and rarely allowing good scoring chances, but the Oilers were controlling the puck. For Predator fans, there was concern about the lack of offensive push.
That would change at 13:00 of the second as David Legwand took a stretch pass from Ryan Suter and drove the low slot. Legwand lifted a backhand that beat Dubnyk high glove side to give the Predators a 3-0 lead on their first shot of the second period.
Edmonton cut the deficit to 3-1 on the power play. Sergei Kostitsyn took a lazy tripping penalty at 8:45 of the second. Andrew Cogliano fired a shot from the low slot that Rinne kicked out with his right pad, but the rebound came right to Jordan Eberle who buried the shot at 9:38.
In the second period, the Oilers outshot the Predators 7 to 5, with each team able to tally a goal. Although the Predators had a 2 goal lead, it was going to be important to come out and control play in the third period and capture the victory and the all important 2 points.
The Predators did just that. Edmonton did not record their first shot on goal until there was only 3:23 remaining in the period. The Predators defense forced the Oilers to the outside and did not give them any quality chances.
When the Oilers did generate chances late in the period, Rinne was sharp. The save of the night came when Rinne made an outstanding glove save on a follow up shot by Tom Gilbert from the low slot.
The Predators outshot the Oilers 10-8 in the period, and most of the shots the Oilers created were with the extra attacker late in the period.
This was a big win for the Predators because this was a game they should have won and because the Oilers have vexed the Predators this season. These are the types of games that can be a mental test, but the Predators were equal to the task.
The level of competition is going to get tougher for the Predators with Anaheim, Dallas, and Vancouver coming to town in the next three games. There are areas that the Predators will need to improve upon, notably puck management. Nevertheless, this is a win the Predators can savor.
With the upcoming games and the tight playoff race, it is going to be important for the Predators to be focused, mentally tough, and physically ready to compete. This is a team that seems to have reclaimed their mojo, and they are going to have to bring it in the next three games.
Your fate is in your hands, boys. Seize the opportunity.
My three stars:
1. David Legwand
2. Martin Erat
3. Pekka Rinne
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Buffalo Victimized by another Miracle from Nashville, Fall to the Predators in OT 4-3
The Nashville Predators staged an improbable comeback to beat the Buffalo Sabres 4-3 in overtime at HSBC Arena. Improbable may not be strong enough to describe the outcome of this game.
Blake Geoffrion continued his strong play of late, tallying his second goal in as many games as he banked a shot off Paul Gaustad's skates and past Ryan Miller to give the Predators a 1-0 lead at 6:44 of the first period.
Anders Lindback got the start for the Predators in net, and made some good saves in the first period to keep the Sabres off the board. Buffalo had some good scoring chances and Lindback turned aside all 11 shots he faced in the period.
In the second period, the Predators opened with good jump and had several glorious scoring chances. Marty Erat had a breakaway that Miller stopped with his blocker. There were several scoring chances with the Predators shooting the puck and crashing the net, but they could not get a puck past Miller.
Unlike the Predators, the Sabres capitalized on their opportunities and mistakes by the Nashville Predators to build a 3-1 lead.
Nathan Gerbe tied the game for the Sabres as he spun away from Kevin Klein at the front of the net and whipped a shot under the pad of Lindback at 7:04 of the second. Gerbe had a solid game for the Sabres, creating good offensive pressure throughout the night.
That goal energized the Sabres, and just 40 seconds later, Tim Connolly blistered a wrist shot over the shoulder of Lindback for his 11th goal of the year and a 2-1 lead for the Sabres.
Those two quick goals jacked up the Sabres and put the Predators on their heels. Buffalo controlled much of the play for the remainder of the second period, while the Predators mustered scant little offensive effort.
Buffalo would extend the lead to 3-1 at 19:00 of the second period while on the power play. Cody Franson took a... what word am I looking for...stupid slashing penalty at 17:22. Tyler Ennis made the Predators pay as his shot from the slot slipped between Lindback's arm and his body.
Down 3-1 and with Miller looking unbeatable and the Sabres clogging the neutral zone, things did not look good for the Predators. It was going to be essential that the Predators get a goal fairly early in the period to loosen up the Sabres defense and to give them a chance to get back into the game.
That did not happen for the Predators. The Sabres defense trapped them in the neutral zone and did a great job of limiting chances once the Predators got into the offensive zone. With the clock winding down, it looked as if an important contest and 2 critical points were going to slip away.
A funny thing happened on the way to what appeared to be a certain Buffalo win, though.
Jonathan Blum fought for the puck in the corner and outworked two Sabres to get control. Blum slipped a pass to Geoffrion, who was stationed to the right of the net. Miller moved to the post as Geoffrion shoved the puck toward the net. Miller did not control the puck and Geoffrion kept whacking at it until he knocked it under Miller's pad to make the score 3-2 Buffalo with 2:27 remaining in the game.
Nashville forced a face off in the Buffalo zone after Miller froze the puck on a shot to the net. Geoffrion won the draw back to Cody Franson, who walked the blue line and let go a quick wrist shot. On the way to the net, Geoffrion tipped the puck and re-directed it past Miller for the game tying goal at 18:37 and his first hat trick in the NHL. The hattie came in only Geoffrion's 11th game in the NHL.
Neither team could score in the waning moments of the third period, and although both teams got a point, the Sabres were stunned. All the energy and momentum was now on the side of the Predators.
The Predators ended the overtime period quickly. Ryan Suter drove the puck inside the face off circle, drawing the defense to him. He slipped a quick pass to Marty Erat who scorched a one-timer past a defenseless Miller for the game winner just 27 seconds into overtime.
When the Predators were facing a 3-1 deficit and little time on the clock, it would have been easy to fold and say this game wasn't meant to be. The aspect of this team that cannot be measured is the heart and character of the players that put on the Predators sweater. They didn't look good at times, but they kept battling and refused to fold. This win can be a hallmark win for the Predators this season, one that they can use to build upon and do great things.
Because they didn't quit.
Head Coach Barry Trotz talks about defining moments- games and sequences in games that show that of which you are made. He says it so much it sometimes becomes cliche among the fans. While running the risk of sounding just as cliche as Trotzy, this was a defining moment game. This was a game that showed this team they are never out of it.
Blake Geoffrion has shown that he is NHL ready. The young man is going to be quite a player for the Predators. Jonathan Blum has exceeded any expectations that I had when he was called up. The young players are getting a baptism by fire and they are showing that they can handle the pressure.
With the win, the Predators are 38-25-10 and have jumped into 6th in the Western Conference for the time being with 86 points.
You now have a 9 game season, boys, and 7 of them are at home. Each of these games will be a game in which you can define yourself as a player and as a team.
Time to bring it.
My three stars:
1. Blake Geoffrion
2. Marty Erat
3. Nathan Gerbe
.
Blake Geoffrion continued his strong play of late, tallying his second goal in as many games as he banked a shot off Paul Gaustad's skates and past Ryan Miller to give the Predators a 1-0 lead at 6:44 of the first period.
Anders Lindback got the start for the Predators in net, and made some good saves in the first period to keep the Sabres off the board. Buffalo had some good scoring chances and Lindback turned aside all 11 shots he faced in the period.
In the second period, the Predators opened with good jump and had several glorious scoring chances. Marty Erat had a breakaway that Miller stopped with his blocker. There were several scoring chances with the Predators shooting the puck and crashing the net, but they could not get a puck past Miller.
Unlike the Predators, the Sabres capitalized on their opportunities and mistakes by the Nashville Predators to build a 3-1 lead.
Nathan Gerbe tied the game for the Sabres as he spun away from Kevin Klein at the front of the net and whipped a shot under the pad of Lindback at 7:04 of the second. Gerbe had a solid game for the Sabres, creating good offensive pressure throughout the night.
That goal energized the Sabres, and just 40 seconds later, Tim Connolly blistered a wrist shot over the shoulder of Lindback for his 11th goal of the year and a 2-1 lead for the Sabres.
Those two quick goals jacked up the Sabres and put the Predators on their heels. Buffalo controlled much of the play for the remainder of the second period, while the Predators mustered scant little offensive effort.
Buffalo would extend the lead to 3-1 at 19:00 of the second period while on the power play. Cody Franson took a... what word am I looking for...stupid slashing penalty at 17:22. Tyler Ennis made the Predators pay as his shot from the slot slipped between Lindback's arm and his body.
Down 3-1 and with Miller looking unbeatable and the Sabres clogging the neutral zone, things did not look good for the Predators. It was going to be essential that the Predators get a goal fairly early in the period to loosen up the Sabres defense and to give them a chance to get back into the game.
That did not happen for the Predators. The Sabres defense trapped them in the neutral zone and did a great job of limiting chances once the Predators got into the offensive zone. With the clock winding down, it looked as if an important contest and 2 critical points were going to slip away.
A funny thing happened on the way to what appeared to be a certain Buffalo win, though.
Jonathan Blum fought for the puck in the corner and outworked two Sabres to get control. Blum slipped a pass to Geoffrion, who was stationed to the right of the net. Miller moved to the post as Geoffrion shoved the puck toward the net. Miller did not control the puck and Geoffrion kept whacking at it until he knocked it under Miller's pad to make the score 3-2 Buffalo with 2:27 remaining in the game.
Nashville forced a face off in the Buffalo zone after Miller froze the puck on a shot to the net. Geoffrion won the draw back to Cody Franson, who walked the blue line and let go a quick wrist shot. On the way to the net, Geoffrion tipped the puck and re-directed it past Miller for the game tying goal at 18:37 and his first hat trick in the NHL. The hattie came in only Geoffrion's 11th game in the NHL.
Neither team could score in the waning moments of the third period, and although both teams got a point, the Sabres were stunned. All the energy and momentum was now on the side of the Predators.
The Predators ended the overtime period quickly. Ryan Suter drove the puck inside the face off circle, drawing the defense to him. He slipped a quick pass to Marty Erat who scorched a one-timer past a defenseless Miller for the game winner just 27 seconds into overtime.
When the Predators were facing a 3-1 deficit and little time on the clock, it would have been easy to fold and say this game wasn't meant to be. The aspect of this team that cannot be measured is the heart and character of the players that put on the Predators sweater. They didn't look good at times, but they kept battling and refused to fold. This win can be a hallmark win for the Predators this season, one that they can use to build upon and do great things.
Because they didn't quit.
Head Coach Barry Trotz talks about defining moments- games and sequences in games that show that of which you are made. He says it so much it sometimes becomes cliche among the fans. While running the risk of sounding just as cliche as Trotzy, this was a defining moment game. This was a game that showed this team they are never out of it.
Blake Geoffrion has shown that he is NHL ready. The young man is going to be quite a player for the Predators. Jonathan Blum has exceeded any expectations that I had when he was called up. The young players are getting a baptism by fire and they are showing that they can handle the pressure.
With the win, the Predators are 38-25-10 and have jumped into 6th in the Western Conference for the time being with 86 points.
You now have a 9 game season, boys, and 7 of them are at home. Each of these games will be a game in which you can define yourself as a player and as a team.
Time to bring it.
My three stars:
1. Blake Geoffrion
2. Marty Erat
3. Nathan Gerbe
.
Good News in Attendance Numbers for the Predators
The NHL released their attendance numbers through February 15th, and there is some good news for the Nashville Predators.
As reported in the February 27th issue of the Sports Business Journal, the League average for all teams is 92.1% of arena capacity. Through that date, the Predators have averaged 92.8% of capacity at the Bridgestone Arena. Further, the Predators show the second largest average attendance increase for the season, up 9.1% from last season. Only the Tampa Bay Lightning have a higher average increase in attendance at 11.2%.
The teams with the biggest drop in average attendance from last season were: the New York Islanders -20.9%; the Dallas Stars -13.5%; and the Columbus Blue Jackets -11.1%.
Here are the numbers for all 30 teams:
TEAM AVG ATTENDANCE % CAPACITY
Anaheim Ducks 14,566 84.8
Atlanta Thrashers 13,056 70.4
Boston Bruins 17,565 100
Buffalo Sabres 18,334 98.1
Calgary Flames 19,289 100
Carolina Hurricanes 15,862 84.9
Chicago Blackhawks 21,301 108
Colorado Avalanche 14,773 82.0
Columbus Blue Jackets 13,619 75.1
Dallas Stars 14,916 80.5
Detroit Red Wings 19,521 97.3
Edmonton Oilers 16,839 100
Florida Panthers 15,036 88.2
Los Angeles Kings 18,062 99.7
Minnesota Wild 17,811 98.6
Montreal Canadiens 21,273 100
Nashville Predators 15,884 92.8
New Jersey Devils 14,018 79.5
New York Islanders 9,893 60.9
New York Rangers 18,065 99.3
Ottawa Senators 18,367 95.9
Philadelphia Flyers 19,657 100.6
Phoenix Coyotes 11,512 67.2
Pittsburgh Penguins 18,220 100.7
San Jose Sharks 17,562 100
St. Louis Blues 19,150 100
Tampa Bay Lightning 16,670 84.4
Toronto Maple Leafs 19,294 102.5
Vancouver Canucks 18,860 100.3
Washington Capitals 18,398 100
The Predators average attendance at 92.8% of capacity is 17th in the League. Much of the growth can be attributed to the focused marketing efforts of the Predators front office staff, particularly the addition of President Jeff Cogen and COO Sean Henry. The leadership team has made great inroads into the Nashville business community over the past 8 months and they have marketed the Predators effectively. This is reflected in the higher attendance numbers throughout the season.
There is no surprise that the Canadian markets show well. The off-ice struggles of the Islanders, Coyotes, and Thrashers are reflected in their numbers. Perhaps the biggest surprises in attendance are with the Stars and Avalanche, which have been winning franchises in the past- and in the case of the Stars are currently a playoff team- but are struggling at the gate.
Predator fans should feel vindicated by these numbers. After hearing the droning of the Canadian media, notably those in Toronto, about how Nashville didn't "deserve" to have a hockey team, it feels good to point out the growth in attendance and the fact that the Predators fans support their team in larger numbers than some of the "favored" franchises.
All this points out is that a well run hockey club can succeed in the so called "non-traditional" markets, and the Predators are proving their critics wrong.
As reported in the February 27th issue of the Sports Business Journal, the League average for all teams is 92.1% of arena capacity. Through that date, the Predators have averaged 92.8% of capacity at the Bridgestone Arena. Further, the Predators show the second largest average attendance increase for the season, up 9.1% from last season. Only the Tampa Bay Lightning have a higher average increase in attendance at 11.2%.
The teams with the biggest drop in average attendance from last season were: the New York Islanders -20.9%; the Dallas Stars -13.5%; and the Columbus Blue Jackets -11.1%.
Here are the numbers for all 30 teams:
TEAM AVG ATTENDANCE % CAPACITY
Anaheim Ducks 14,566 84.8
Atlanta Thrashers 13,056 70.4
Boston Bruins 17,565 100
Buffalo Sabres 18,334 98.1
Calgary Flames 19,289 100
Carolina Hurricanes 15,862 84.9
Chicago Blackhawks 21,301 108
Colorado Avalanche 14,773 82.0
Columbus Blue Jackets 13,619 75.1
Dallas Stars 14,916 80.5
Detroit Red Wings 19,521 97.3
Edmonton Oilers 16,839 100
Florida Panthers 15,036 88.2
Los Angeles Kings 18,062 99.7
Minnesota Wild 17,811 98.6
Montreal Canadiens 21,273 100
Nashville Predators 15,884 92.8
New Jersey Devils 14,018 79.5
New York Islanders 9,893 60.9
New York Rangers 18,065 99.3
Ottawa Senators 18,367 95.9
Philadelphia Flyers 19,657 100.6
Phoenix Coyotes 11,512 67.2
Pittsburgh Penguins 18,220 100.7
San Jose Sharks 17,562 100
St. Louis Blues 19,150 100
Tampa Bay Lightning 16,670 84.4
Toronto Maple Leafs 19,294 102.5
Vancouver Canucks 18,860 100.3
Washington Capitals 18,398 100
The Predators average attendance at 92.8% of capacity is 17th in the League. Much of the growth can be attributed to the focused marketing efforts of the Predators front office staff, particularly the addition of President Jeff Cogen and COO Sean Henry. The leadership team has made great inroads into the Nashville business community over the past 8 months and they have marketed the Predators effectively. This is reflected in the higher attendance numbers throughout the season.
There is no surprise that the Canadian markets show well. The off-ice struggles of the Islanders, Coyotes, and Thrashers are reflected in their numbers. Perhaps the biggest surprises in attendance are with the Stars and Avalanche, which have been winning franchises in the past- and in the case of the Stars are currently a playoff team- but are struggling at the gate.
Predator fans should feel vindicated by these numbers. After hearing the droning of the Canadian media, notably those in Toronto, about how Nashville didn't "deserve" to have a hockey team, it feels good to point out the growth in attendance and the fact that the Predators fans support their team in larger numbers than some of the "favored" franchises.
All this points out is that a well run hockey club can succeed in the so called "non-traditional" markets, and the Predators are proving their critics wrong.
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