tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19617175079924664302024-02-20T23:34:50.885-08:00Hockey-less in MemphisA journey through the mind of an extremely dedicated Nashville Predators fanHockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-86173241621568313352011-04-13T19:46:00.000-07:002011-04-15T10:31:27.575-07:00Preds VS Ducks Playoff game 2<span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">It's Duck Season</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">The Nashville Predators are set to take on the Anaheim Ducks again tonight for game 2 of the first round Stanley Cup Playoffs. The game is set for 9:30 CST making it extremely tough for the Predator fans to stay up and watch their beloved team, who is determined to move on past the first round of the Playoffs and make team history. If the game is anything like what we witnessed on Wednesday, though, there shouldn't be any issue with staying up to cheer them on.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Tonight's game should be filled with as much action a fan could hope for, the Ducks came out hard against the Preds in Game 1 held on Wednesday night in Anaheim, with veteran Teemu Selanne attempting to place the Ducks on his shoulders and carry them to a victory. It was not in the cards, and the Ducks only goal came during a breakdown of the Preds discipline which gave Anaheim a 5 on 3 powerplay for almost a minute and a half. That is what it took for Teemu to score against the Preds, a 5 on 3 powerplay. There were a good amount of scoring chances for the Ducks, but Pekka Rinne showed them again why he was the second best goaltender in the league for the regular season. This is why I could not understand how hockey fans/media could be "shocked" or "surprised" at the Predators huge road win against the Ducks. The Preds went 3-1 versus Anaheim in the regular season and Pekka Rinne finished the regular season only trailing Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins in stats.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">The Ducks are looking for revenge after the Preds handily stole the home-ice advantage from them on Wednesday. The 4-1 win boosted the Predator's confidence, and should give them enough fortitude to win again tonight. The Ducks will be challenging the Preds discipline, just as they did during Game 1, with Corey Perry leading the charge. Jordin Tootoo and Shane OBrien of the Preds will have to keep their composure and resist the temptation thrown at them constantly. Peks will have to stand on his head again, and Mike Fisher (our most experienced post-season player) will have to lead by example just as he did on Wednesday scoring 2 goals to seal the victory. If the Preds can keep their level heads and focus along with discipline and poise, they are sure to bring home another solid victory, bringing a series lead 2-0 back to their building and their fans on Sunday.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">There may even be a surprise or two awaiting the Ducks before, during, and after the game....</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Here is a little something to get Predator fans motivated provided by @racheladdison on Twitter:</span><br /><a style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtkqkXRBXORWvrhVKXqMlj9B1-t8t6GxbBNwvoqZwA59dXo4r6-DFUK0ZcMOjsYEjJdqo07q1eFY-Ka2_V9vf3IvP1lrRtXwfwTgYUHcBLnat3Qs8B1T3S5ro9o-4k2MB9qhBSydhGLR3-/s1600/274869962.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtkqkXRBXORWvrhVKXqMlj9B1-t8t6GxbBNwvoqZwA59dXo4r6-DFUK0ZcMOjsYEjJdqo07q1eFY-Ka2_V9vf3IvP1lrRtXwfwTgYUHcBLnat3Qs8B1T3S5ro9o-4k2MB9qhBSydhGLR3-/s320/274869962.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595811275218417666" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Predator fans should feel free to download this and change their avatar in support!</span>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-50839948293695174622011-01-07T12:53:00.000-08:002011-01-07T13:22:37.794-08:00Day 2 training for the Fangtastic 5KJanuary 7, 2011<br />Today I woke up feeling a little sore and achy from my run the other day. Determined, I laced up my shoes, got my water bottle filled, and turned on a "This American Life" podcast on my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">iPod</span>.<br />Listening to a podcast makes it a little easier to distract myself from the burning in my lungs when running the short intervals of the <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml">CT5K</a> training program.<br />About 10 minutes in to the run/walk a sweet little pup came up wanting attention, being an animal lover, and a hopeless worrywart, I had to take care of the poor boy while his "mom" drove back to get him. While this disrupted my training, I simply COULD NOT let him run around on his own until she got back, so we waited on their porch, and after making sure that "Cody" was safe, I started back on my run....<br />I actually ran for a total of 20 minutes and walked for 25 minutes, finding it easier and easier to start my "runs" as the time progressed. Here's to hoping this trend continues.....<br />After all, February 12<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> is coming faster and faster.<br />Also, I started a photo album on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Facebook</span> for my training.... feel free to check it out by clicking on this link: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=281745&id=776423999&l=8b6e474315"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Fangtastic</span> 5K</a><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Fangtastic</span> 5K here I come!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-32829265362053003122011-01-05T11:01:00.000-08:002011-01-05T11:28:17.955-08:00Fangtastic 5K<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sooo</span>... Last night, along with a few other Twitter friends, I signed up for my first EVER 5k. Yes. Me.<br />This may not seem like a huge deal to you, but you are probably one of those people that actually <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">exercises</span>, but I am not. I haven't since I was FORCED to in Gym class over a decade ago. Even then, creating fake illnesses to get out of the running, kickball, and badminton was a challenge I accepted on a daily basis. Fact is, when I get home from my overly stressful Retail Manager job all I want to do is lay on the couch, watch t.v., and eat horrible snacks. So when it got in my head last night that I still had not begun my resolution to get in shape, I signed up. Nothing like a $40 investment to get, and keep me motivated.<br />Today, a few more of our Predator Twitter people joined us in the event, including the third founding member of the @<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">HockeyTonkAngel</span> s Rachel and her Fiance Frankie. Most of us are going to walk/run it, but the point is, we are going to do it. I am going to run(walk) a 5K.<br />Everyone has been really supportive, and forwarded a lot of great information and sites to me including: <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml">From Couch to 5K</a> There is even an app for Droid. Yep. I am going to do this. Along with: Jennifer Parker, Rachel Addison, Patten <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Fuqua</span>, Tyler Davis, Ashley Simmons, Justin Bradford, Frankie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Rosato</span>, Lizette Garcia, Ben <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Butzbach</span>, April McDonald, John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Fessler</span>, Cheryl Norris, and several others. I believe that this is now gonna be a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">bonified</span> #<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">NHLTweetup</span><br />I started my training this morning, it wasn't too bad, definitely out of shape though. Following the From Couch to 5k program seems to make it easy.<br />I have to do this, for the Predators Foundation.... and for myself. Here's to 2011.<br />"This year will be our year, took a long time to come" ~ The ZombiesHockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-87681773347088884742010-12-17T06:48:00.000-08:002010-12-17T08:11:36.603-08:00Change needed?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Ok (Preds) Fans and Neighbors,</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I am pretty sure by now that my love for the Nashville Predators is pretty obvious, and with the New Year fast-approaching, I have decided to make a career change my first priority. I will no longer be forced to choose between sanity and madness. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> Until an opening comes about in Nashville at the Pro-Shop I will be lobbying for the Manager's position, in a not so subtle way... through the use of my Blog, Twitter, & possibly Facebook ( I have to block my current boss from reading it there though, sooooo....it might not appear there for a while)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> Here are my qualifications, my shortened resume if you will:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> 4 year degree in Merchandising from the University of Memphis with a minor in Marketing, 15 years ofon the job experience, of which 5 are as a Store Manager of a large corporate retail store. My current store is constantly monitored and visited by Corporate employees, including the President and CEO of the Company who lives 5 miles down the road. I am the youngest Manager in the history of the highest volume store in the District, with pressure to perform at exceptionally high levels daily in not only Sales, but also Customer Service. My title of Store Manger is mis-leading, as I must also be a salesperson who creates excitement and demonstrates a commitment to excellence for our customers to return. In our last huge visit in October, every VP of every division in the company spent an hour in my store, yielding top marks and repeat comments that I could "sell ice to Eskimos". ( I convinced them each to buy products in our store, something that they usually do not do) This is not the first time that I have been told this, but it was the first time that 30+ corporate execs relayed it to me at the same time. My job is great, but selling shoes is not a passion of mine. There is only so much creativity that can be put in to the day to day operations of a Corporately run store. My hands are tied when it comes to the look and set-up, as I am not paid the "Big-bucks" to make those types of decisions. I am also forbidden to use any type of Social Media, or other such advertising to bring customers to the store. Makes it tough to change the face of a company known in the past for CHEAP, basic shoes, into a modern, fashion-concious entity. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">So, enough about the current job.....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Here's my plan to take over the Preds Pro-Shop:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> I want to show what the Shop could do with a little salesmanship, as in show the "Powers that Be" how many items they could sell just by getting their audience excited about things. Take for example my #PredsSnuggie campaign on Twitter. I firmly believe that there would still be a huge number of those socially-outcast slankets (blanket with sleeves) still gathering dust in the shelves, if it weren't for a single day of tweets started by a simple request by me, followed by a deluge of Retweets, the creation of a hashtag, and a certain "insider" who helped me get one although the Shop was closed the day I came to town. Some Twitter friends began telling me that they would NEVER own a SNUGGIE, that they were hideous, and could not believe that I wanted one. One friend in particular seems to have changed her mind, admitting that she could use one in her frigid office to keep her arms warm.....Here's a link to the<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span></span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/search/%23PredsSnuggie"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFF00;">#PredsSnuggie</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFFFF;"> </span>hashtag conversations... (I'm telling you... "Ice to Eskimos").....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is just the first of my ideas to help our dear, sweet Pro-Shop out. Next is a contest involving jersey tees and the </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/HockeyTonkAngels"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFF00;">Hockey-Tonk Angels</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFFF00;"> </span>keep an eye out for it in the next week or so. Thanks for reading..... forward to anyone who may find it interesting..... </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Go Preds!</span></div><div><br /></div>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-90412297272254926152010-08-12T07:21:00.000-07:002010-08-12T07:50:35.061-07:00No Pink In The Rink<span style="font-family: arial;"> I want to clear something up with regards to our newly founded <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> page and Twitter account:<br /> First, I would like to say, I am not against pink jerseys for Women IF they are part of a project for the Hockey Fights Cancer month in October. I own a pink jersey (not the glitter one) BUT I made it a point to get an official jersey first. Of course, in my size, the only option I had at that time was to get a Child's L/XL unless I wanted to swim in my Men's Small jersey. That pink jersey hasn't seen the light of day for quite some time, I will wear it in October though, in support of my incredible Mother-in-law who is a 2 time Cancer survivor (Breast & Lymphoma).<br /> The support our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Facebook</span> page has received in the past two days has been overwhelming. Thank you all for your support and discussion topics. I hope that the NHL can see that we female fans are not all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">PUCKBUNNIES</span>, or in dire need of a be-dazzled, belly-baring, or glitter embellished merchandise to support our favorite team. We as women would spend WAY more on merchandise than men would because we would buy for our guys, significant others, and children. If only there were more options.<br /> I do understand that there are women out there that LOVE this merchandise. This is FINE. More than acceptable, I need them to spend that money and support our teams. The problem I have is that the NHL only seems to cater to that demographic. As far as I can tell, when I go to Hockey games, I see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">waaaaaaay</span> more ladies looking for REAL TEAM COLORS & REAL TEAM LOGOS in the Pro Shop. I do not see most of my female friends/ fans searching out sequins, jewels, and other such embellishments..... in fact, I usually see these items go to the 50% off rack near the end of the season. For a few of us on the petite side, we keep sneaking over to the men's section, hoping to find a SMALL, trying to make it work. IT NEVER DOES. The Men's fit is way too boxy, whether you are a small or XXL. We have curves, plain and simple. We need a cut that is flattering, YES we want to wear what the guys wear, just tailored to us!<br /> The NHL needs to realize that we are a huge, viable, and SUSTAINABLE demographic for them. I know personally that my household spends a ton of money to support OUR favorite team, The Nashville Predators, and would spend more if I had options. Hubby can get away with just about anything in the store, but the Women's selection is ATROCIOUS.<br /> Please NHL. Please listen to us. We are tired of this situation. Really tired. We don't need a $300.00 logo purse, be-jeweled tube tops, thongs with "Hockey Ho" on them, or glitter jerseys. These items have to be costing you a lot to produce and will sit on racks or in your storage for the season til you mark them down. I am willing to bet that some fringe fans WILL buy this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">merchandise</span>, but that is probably the only item they will buy. Give me REAL LOGOS, REAL TEAM COLORS, and NO GLITTER, and I can promise you that I will purchase more. A LOT more. TRUST me....<br />Please follow us on Twitter for more updates, and see the community we are building.<br />@<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">NoPinkInTheRink</span> (official account for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">FB</span> page)<br />@<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">TigerPredsChick</span> @<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Predsaddict</span> @<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">RachelAddison</span> @<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ReinaDeLaIsla<br /><br />Thank you also to our bloggers that are helping spread the word:<br />@Forechecker @PredsOnTheGlass @DiamondHockey @Cellblock303<br />we really appreciate it!<br /></span><br /><br /></span>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-80645235076196711572010-08-05T18:58:00.000-07:002010-08-05T21:31:46.267-07:00~Top Five reasons I LOVE Hockey~<span style="font-family:arial;">I have been thinking long and hard about this whole "5 things I love about Hockey" thing, and it has been tough to come up with JUST five reasons..... Plus, when I tried to put them in order of importance, I couldn't. Then, just as the feeling of defeat was about to take over, my brain unlocked, and Eureka! The idea came to me as though it was the most obvious thing in the world. I'm not supposed to say the top five things I LOVE about Hockey, instead:<br />Here are my top 5 reasons to LOATHE Hockey:<br />Don't freak out, loyal followers, I haven't abandoned my beloved sport, just thought I would take a new twist on what everyone else was doing....<br /><br />Here they are: My top 5 reasons why I loathe Hockey:<br /><br />5. <span style="font-weight: bold;">PUCK BUNNIES</span>- We all know who they are and what they are about, as a female fan I hate that some people mistake me for one.... at least until they have spoken to me, then they find out how much passion I have for the game.<br /><br />4. <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Limited availability of Merchandise.</span> It seems like there are maybe 5-10 styles of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats available for purchase, and for those of us who aren't lucky enough to live in a "Real Hockey city" have even more limited choices to purchase. Even with the Internet it's VERY difficult to find something good-looking and new to add to the collection.<br /><br />3. <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Having to buy a "special" package in order to see hockey games on my T.V. when I cannot BE at the game</span>. In addition to being a partial season ticket holder (and paying MUCH MUCH MUCH too much money on those tickets, the gas money to and from those games, a Prius to avoid going broke because of the gas, and my need for Chipotle tacos and salsa before the game, I have to spend an additional arm and a leg just to see a Hockey game that features a team other than the Penguins or Capitals.....<br /><br />2. <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Lack of Respect for "Small Market" teams</span>. Seems like the beginning of Hockey season also brings the new rumors of expansion teams losing so much money that they are going to move within the next season to a city that would "Support them more". Boo to that. As a Preds fan, I have been through what the Coyotes, Blue Jackets, and Islanders (and others) are currently fighting. Just because these teams are not in "Traditional Hockey towns" does not mean that they do not have loyal and dedicated fans. Maybe the teams need some help with marketing, hmmm.... maybe they should talk to me.<br /><br />AND NOW- My top reason that I loathe Hockey.....<br />wait for it.......<br /><br />wait for it........<br /><br />wait for it........<br /><br /><br /><br />#1.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> I LIVE THREE HOURS AWAY FROM THE NEAREST NHL ARENA<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span> Yep, that's right. The same thing I say all the time. I live too far away from my passion. My month has to be planned out in advance, my car has to be fuel efficient, budgets have to be created, dogs have to have a baby-sitter, and sacrifices have to be made. It's all worth it in the end though, the long drive seems a little shorter after a win, and the community of friends that I have built and hope to maintain is mind-blowing.<br /> <br />One day I hope to live in my favorite NHL city (Nashville) and work for the team who has my heart. Maybe someday soon.......<br /><br />So that's it, that's my Top 5 reasons I loathe Hockey. Really though, these are minor in the grand scheme of things, let's be honest, I LOVE HOCKEY, and really nothing could ever change that. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /></span></span></span> Counting down the days until Training Camp.....<br /><br /> </span>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-30744050502972216122010-01-08T17:21:00.000-08:002010-01-08T18:43:26.705-08:00How SWEDE it is!Usually I do not write about any one player, but let me ask you a question:<br /><br /> Are you as completely fascinated with Patric <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hornqvist</span> as I am? Last year, he was something special, but THIS YEAR he has really come in to his own. This 23 year old Swede has slowly wormed his way in to my heart since the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-season with his rough and tumble style, and I honestly didn't think that was possible. You see, there's this "thing" about goalies that has always gotten my attention. It started with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vokoun</span>, has moved on to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne</span>, along with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Khabibulin</span>, no real reason behind it, but maybe they are the "bad boys" of the sport, always willing to throw themselves in front of a frozen weapon.... don't know, but I digress, back to the article at hand. Patric <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hornqvist</span> has become one of my favorite players to watch.<br /><br />As the Predator's LEADING GOAL SCORER.... That's right, Mr. Last Pick of the 2005 draft, has 16 goals, 10 assists and a PLUS 10 rating so far this season (even while taking penalties for his gritty style) While, on any other team he wouldn't be a stand out with those kinds of stats, he has more goals since December 14<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> than Patrick Kane of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Blackhawks</span>. Yes, you read THAT right, more goals than Patrick Kane in that period. (as of 1.7.10)<br /><br />He is a nuisance for goaltenders, defenders try to target him while failing miserably, and coaches are unsure of how to tame him. When Horny (his nickname, I swear) is on the ice, you can feel the energy level go up especially in the top line, maybe his youth has woken the older players from their hibernation? That feels like a rant that would be better saved for another time.....<br /><br />Anyways, back to Praising Patric....<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Every time</span> he is in the paint, you feel as though he can score as long as the puck is sent his way.... When was the last time anyone was able to say that about a <em>Predator</em> player?<br /><br />Recently, Horny was named to the Swedish Olympic roster, and according to the post-game interview on January 5<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> V.S. the Flames, he is completely honored to be a part of it. He will be among some of Hockey's elite, including <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Forsberg</span>, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sedin</span> brothers, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lidstrom</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ohlund</span>, and many others. If he plays in that tournament like he does in every game here in Nashville, then the defending champs will be hard to beat.<br /><br />Watching the game from last night against the Hurricanes solidified my love for the Swede.... After all, how many players can get 6 minutes of penalties in the first period and end up with 2 goals? Reading his post-game interview from the Predator's website, the quote that stood out the most was about his style of play in the crease, he said: "Yeah, that is my role there and I’m not going to change it. I’m going to be in the front and I’m going to be hard to play against every night." <span style="color:#000099;">I LOVE THAT!!! </span><span style="color:#000000;">His passion for the game and his play are really starting to make a case for a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hornqvist</span> personalized jersey, instead of a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">RINNE</span>... didn't think THAT was possible!</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;"></span><br />All in all, this season has really started to shape up for the Predators, and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hornqvist</span> is not the only one who has contributed to the recent wins, but he has been a HUGE factor for the team. Let's just hope that continues, which when watching him play, I can't imagine it not.....Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-76570378863584458442010-01-08T16:11:00.000-08:002010-01-08T17:19:52.123-08:00Flames at Predators 1.5.10The Hockey Gods are cruel.... <br />When good things happen before a game for me, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> are left in my karmic wake.<br /><br />Why?, You ask....<br /><br />Well: I arrived in the front of the Renaissance Hotel in Downtown Nashville around 3:30 PM to find that the Calgary Flames bus was waiting out front, this was a GREAT sign, as I was hoping to autograph hound them before they made their way to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sommet</span> Center for their <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-game warm-ups......<br />The freezing temps would not discourage me from my endeavour. As an autograph hound, the team as a whole is not my goal, no greed in my vocabulary, there are a few players on each team that catch my attention and that is who gets to put paint on puck. In this case, it was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jarome</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Iginla</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Mikka</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kiprusoff</span>, Jay <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bouwmeester</span>, and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Olli</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jokinen</span>.....one more was on that list, but because of recent issues, there was no holding of breath for him to have traveled much less be willing to sign for me. Seeing the team begin to filter from the lobby to the bus and placing their belongings on it, my stomach lurched realizing that this day was gonna be a great one for me. All of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">aforementioned</span> players signed, and my mystery player (Dion <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Phaneuf</span>) came striding along more than willing to sign and even THANKED ME for asking for his auto!!!! Admittedly, some may have labeled me as "Fan Girl" when I realized that Dion was headed right for us, but what do I care? I probably will never see him again, and if I do, he won't remember me!<br /><br />Off to dinner at Chipotle...... THEN:<br /><br />Around 6:00 the doors opened to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sommet</span> Center, the crowd rushed in out of the cold, and on a tip from a fellow "T<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">weep</span>" I headed straight for the already crowded Pro Shop to retrieve my beloved Women's fit Third Jersey and purchase it. Placing that Black and Blue beauty on my back, looking at the perfect fit, and ripping the tag off for the cashier took mere seconds.... Victory!!! So proud.... so happy to be a season ticket holder and get that 20% off too! Wow, this night was really going well..... the smooth ride from Memphis, the free parking, a successful hounding trip, and the purchase of my Third was making for a great day in Music City... Seriously, what could go wrong?<br /><br />Warm-ups are a tradition..... I head down there, take tons of pictures, and my presence makes the team really work hard....hahahahahaha... made myself laugh with that one.... Really, just like seeing my boys up close and personal before the game, and send some good thoughts their way. The horn sounded, and I solemly made my way up the stairs kicking myself for not upgrading those tickets to lower bowl, took one last look at the silent auction table, and was asked where our seats were for the game, told the guy running the table, and he handed me a pair of tickets for section 120. I was FLOORED! <br /><br />This is where the night turns tragic. The game started, the Flames scored first, Preds had no momentum, and lost the game because I had a good day....... I take personal responsibility for it PREDS fans.... It was me. So sorry. I will never do it again. ;)<br />(not true.... don't hold me to it) The next opportunity to hound and get free stuff, I will not be the one to turn it down. That would just be silly!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-19962144528130272962009-12-18T07:06:00.000-08:002009-12-18T08:39:07.086-08:00Preds at OilersBack in October the Preds were embarrased at their own arena by the Edmonton Oilers, LAST night however, they got their revenge..... and it was SWEET!<br /><br />The first five minutes of the game seemed to be going the same route as the previous one, but with an early time-out by Coach Trotz, and a goaltender switcheroo, the momentum came straight to the visiting team's bench. In all fairness, the 2 early goals by the Oilers (one on a powerplay and the other where the Defense was just schooled) were not Pek's fault, but Trotz had to make a tough choice and get the team fired up...... AND it worked. You see that Trotzy haters? HE MAKES GOOD DECISIONS..... like always!<br /><br />7 minutes later, Ryan Jones scores his fourth goal of the season, bringing the boys within 1, and continuing to post his reasons why he should be in the Big League, after all, he IS getting paid those Big Boy dollars. If Jones keeps playing like this, there will be no doubt for the nay-sayers out there regarding Jonesy.... He belongs up here, and it is very good to see him producing and playing very well.<br /><br />Not to be outdone, the hottest line for the Nashville Predators, the Ward, Legwand, Smithson line connected for Wardo to get the game tying goal around the 16 minute mark of the first period. It is so good to see this line really connecting and producing for the Preds, cannot tell you how long we have been waiting for Leggy to really connect for the team and produce like we know he can. Watching the set-up and the goal there really was never any doubt that the puck was going in to the net on that sequence, and that is what makes this team fun to watch. They are creating chances and the follow-up from the guys is what is really impressive. This team will not quit, and that is what is going to take them far. <br /><br />Just to steal more momentum from the home team, Marcel Goc (one of my new favorites to watch) scores 50 seconds later and helps take his team to the locker room after the first with a come from behind 3-2 lead. Goc is truly making a name for himself with this Predators team, and JP Dumont set him up for that goal beautifully. Goc has 5 goals on the season.......Marcel Goc... who would have thought THAT was going to happen? <br /><br />The Predators did not lay low for the second period either, with Patric <em>Horn-Dog</em> Hornqvist scoring the 4th goal on the night for the Preds (his 9th on the season). Playing hard and generating chances seems to be working for this team, but Deslauriers kept the game close (if you can call it that). The Oilers team is fast, and usually the Preds cannot keep up with that kind of speed, usually losing confidence and allowing the other team to come back and score a few. The Oilers did make their mark during one of these unfocused times with Nilsson netting a powerplay goal during the second to pull within 1. Horn Dog would not have any of it though, taking full advantage of the extra man and scoring goal number 5 for the visiting team, his 10th on the season. Yes, you read that right, 10th..... BY THE WAY, only Jason Arnott and Martin Erat have more goals than Horny.....<br /><br />The third period, was not the Preds but they came through it not allowing any goals, and scoring a legitimate goal from Jerred Smithson with seconds to go in the game, effectively nailing the coffin shut for the Oilers. Smithers was determined to score, since his empty netter was called back seconds before for an off-sides by Legwand. <br /><br />Last night's game was fun to watch, and being a Predator fan has been a pleasant surprise this year. A rough beginning, a hot streak in November, a couple of rough games to begin December, and the start of a new streak in the making now. The tough part will be when they visit the Calgary Flames on Saturday for the second meeting of the season. The first, much like the first meeting between the Oilers and the Preds, did not go well for Trotz and his team, but with the team's confidence rising, and realizing that even with their "no-name" talent they can do well, maybe they can exact revenge on the Flames. Calgary does seem to school the Preds everytime they meet, and with their offensive talent and Kipper in net, they have every reason to do so. Personally, I am hoping for a huge upset on behalf of the Preds. <br /><br />During his Post-game interview, Ellis told Pete and Terry that Peks was suffering from a little bit of the flu....... get better Peks!!!! That makes the decision to pull him so early a little more understandable, considering the 2 goals he had against him were not neccesarily his fault, a great decision by Trotz. He needed momentum, and he got it. It just sucks that Peks was feeling bad, and couldn't get this "W". <br /><br />Looking forward to Saturday's game, even though I won't be able to see any of it..... ahhhh the life of a retail store manager at holiday time. No room for hockey.....<br /><br />Let's Go Preds!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-75520191773777957342009-12-07T17:18:00.000-08:002009-12-07T18:34:40.229-08:00withdrawal...I am currently suffering from MASSIVE hockey <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">withdrawal</span> right now waiting for Saturday's game at 501 Broadway against the Red Wings.....<br /><br />Hopefully the result will be much better than the last home game against the Wild. Especially after the incredible win versus the Hawks the night before. Unfortunately, there are many, many people that watch the Predators and have realized that team plays to the team that they are playing against. When they play an elite team like the Sharks, Hawks, Red Wings, and many others, there appears to be a fire in their hearts and skates. On the flip side, when a last place team or close to last place team comes in to the arena, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> play down, whether they believe it should be an easy game, or simply don't want to work as hard.<br />A large problem that has been discussed amongst fans of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> is the lack of heart brought to the ice by our Captain, Jason <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Arnott</span>, who seems only to have the energy or willingness to play about half of the time. The way he plays right now, and has for a while is lack-luster to say the least. Half of the time, I am simply unaware that he is playing, unless the goal horn goes off and Paul announces his name for the goal. yes, I know he is a leading scorer, but honestly he is not fun to watch. GIVE ME TOOTS (this year), Horny, and even <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">SCATCH</span> ANYTIME!<br />Now the young talent on the team comes out guns a blazing and generates chances, those are the players that should be on the ice. Have a bad night? BENCH them.... no matter what line they are on. Remember what happened to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Erat</span>? Injury or not, the scratch did him some good. He has totally won back a little piece of my heart in the past few weeks and actually appears to be having a good time on the ice, and generating chances with his patented spin moves.<br />Simply laying out my peace to keep frustrations from building up.....<br />LET'S go <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>!!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-79594920575589102322009-12-04T18:11:00.000-08:002009-12-04T21:14:21.324-08:00Preds @ Blackhawks 12.04.091st goal of the game.... Hammer & Elly get schooled by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Toews</span>. Yes boys, that IS the same <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Toews</span> from the press conference the other day that got signed for A LOT of money by the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Blackhawks</span>, the same on that Coach and everyone else has told you to watch and take care of.....<br />2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> goal: Hammer totally redeems himself. assisted by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Oreilly</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Franson</span> :0)<br /><br />Ryan <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Suter</span> interview after 1st intermission: Says that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotzy</span> has told them not to cross their skates, or you get "screwed" <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">hahahahahhahaha</span> That made me smile a lot! <br /><br />Also seeing the United Way commercial with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jonesy</span> doesn't make me sad now because he is back up!<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Brouwer</span> trips Klein into the boards hard sending Klein to the dressing room immediately....but Klein returns to the ice shortly after, taking his regular shifts, even though there were tweets to Admirals staff asking if <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sulzer</span> could come back to Nashville after their game tonight.... all is well though...<br /><br />Then in a surprising move, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">ok</span>... just surprising to him, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Erat</span> redirects a puck from Toots leading to the 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> goal of the night for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>... THIS is what happens when you have net presence boys!<br /><br />Leggy with an awesome D move in the second as Elly and Weber get tied up on a breakaway, Leggy continues to play strong and seems to be having a wonderful year. He and Ward are really communicating and creating opportunities, plus blocking the other team's chances.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Suter</span> swatted away an opportunity in the second while the Hawks crashed the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pred's</span> net and continues to play strong.<br />THEN <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tootoo</span> fed a shot to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">Erat</span> to make it 2-1 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>. Really glad to see Toots get the assist on this goal, but even more stoked to see his GOAL<br /><br />The third period starts with an immediate shot on goal by the Hawks, but it was gobbled up by Ellis, who was OUTSTANDING tonight!<br />The Hawks never let up, but neither did the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>, they were absolutely playing to WIN!!!<br /><br />Toots had been due for a goal with his play over the last month, and finally cashed in with his second of the season, followed 35 seconds later by a pass from Leggy to Ward that resulted in the 4<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> and final goal of the game.<br /><br />Incredible win for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> tonight, now they should be looking to exact revenge on the Wild tomorrow after their awful loss a few days ago.......<br />Needless to say, GO <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-error">PREDS</span>!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-20496581047789544662009-11-18T06:42:00.001-08:002009-11-18T07:42:24.214-08:00Sharks @ PredatorsThank you Predators for yet another home win! It makes the 2 1/2 hour drive home a lot easier to swallow.....<br /><br />The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> won 4-3 last night against the San Jose Sharks, same score as the last meeting of the two, but different outcome. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> pulled out a huge win against <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">argueably</span> one of the best teams in the NHL. There was no point in the game that the home team was slacking off, though sorry Arny, you did seem like you were calling it in all game...... Maybe Patric <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hornqvist</span> will give you some pointers on how to play with heart, just a suggestion.<br /><br />Although <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pekka</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne</span> had some spectacular saves, he had an average game overall. The real story of last night was the <strong>Ward, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Legwand</span>, Smithson</strong> line......<br />Really and truly that line has played some of the most exciting hockey we as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> fans have seen in a long time. It was really great to see the chances that Leggy has been generating pay off with a goal and 2 assists and first star honors! Seriously, when was the last time Leggy was a star of the game?<br /><br />Not to be put aside, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Smithers</span> has continued to play great hockey and generated a lot of excitement on the ice. Ward seemed to be right in the thick of the action and would not give up, really this line is <strong>Fang-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">tastic</span></strong>!! Cheesy? yes.... LOVE IT!<br /><br />What was up with the game clock though? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotz</span> was ANGRY about it during his post-game interview and rightfully so. The Sharks should not have been allowed all of that extra time to rest and <span style="color:#000000;">get a strategy together</span>, if there was ever a team that could make a game-tying play within those 3 seconds, the Sharks are it. Thankfully the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> were able to stave off any plays for that 3 seconds, but still, it should NEVER have happened. PLUS, it was delaying my departure, that's all I am gonna say about that though. Game Clock Officials, GET IT TOGETHER!<br /><br />Overall, an incredible game against an incredible team. Where will the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> be in March if this keeps up? All the line juggling, all of the hate for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotzy</span>, all of the lack of support for the team will be null and void if they continue to play with the heart, determination, and confidence that they have shown in the last few weeks. Yes, there have been some heart-breaking losses for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> (last Sharks game, etc..) but with the current roster, and the gritty under-dog mentality, we may just have ourselves an exciting season of hockey to watch!<br /><br />Congrats again to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> on a FANTASTIC win! Can't wait to be back on Monday as you take on the WINGS!<br /><br />Let's GO <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-86261968053983710552009-11-16T06:38:00.001-08:002009-11-18T06:42:02.146-08:00Preds keep Habs off scoreboard<span style="font-family:arial;">Saturday's game at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sommet</span> Center brought <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pekka</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne's</span> second shutout of the season.... but the real star that night was <span style="color:#3333ff;">Carey Price</span>. He stopped 53 of 55 shots, and was downright incredible. Plus, he stopped outside the arena for a gaggle of fans seeking autographs can anyone say <strong>awesome</strong>? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Before the game, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jordin</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tootoo's</span> dad was standing next to the silent auction table and signed a ticket stub, then called us back, and gave us a pen and a pin bearing the name of his nation. Incredibly nice guy.... </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ok</span>... but here's the real story:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> started the game with a lot of energy and never let up. There was never any doubt that this game was all about them, if Price had been off this would have easily been a 5-7 goal game for the Predators. They were right where they needed to be about 99 percent of the time, and the funniest moment had to be when Shea Weber sent a hard shot at Price, who went straight in to self-preservation mode.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Each player was on... no complaints at all.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Short and sweet wrap-up, huh?</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Lets go <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-4991411780444626552009-11-12T08:37:00.000-08:002009-11-12T09:15:52.783-08:00Preds VS Blues<span style="font-family:arial;">Yet again the Preds are facing a team with a couple of former players, and we as fans hope that the outcome is different from the Sharks game the other night. We want a <strong>WIN</strong>!</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Although the Predators looked like the team that fans have been waiting for the entire season, they managed to give the game away with minutes to go. Even though the scoring chances were there for them, they could not put the puck in the net to tie it before regulation ended, prompting a 4-3 loss. The Preds always play well against the Sharks, and seem to be coming together even amongst the plague of injuries that has taken hold of the team. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Returning tonight to the line-up is J P DUUuuuuuUUUmont, and knowing this has prompted some hopeful feelings from me. Whenever he is on the ice, the Preds seem to play better, maybe he should have the "C", not Arny......just a thought....</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The lack of sleep from the West Coast game schedule will be worth it if the boys return from this road trip with a win tonight against the Blues.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Dan Ellis- please watch the puck and know where it is..... AT ALL TIMES! You cannot let those squeakers go through your pads with minutes to go during a tied game, and well, you can't let that happen ever! </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Weber was getting his legs back after his injury, but played well and Suter has continued to play strong with or without his line partner. The team does rely on the D for scoring too, so hopefully that trend can continue AND the offense can score a little too..... is that too much to ask for? </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Hopefully Peks will be in net tonight, as that seems to be Trotzy's play, lose a game, ride the bench (Ellis). This season, the goaltender's confidence has been pulled up and down with the decision of who is starting and who is sitting, so it begs the question: </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Is either goalie worthy of the starting position? Or do the Preds simply have a 1a and 1b goalie rotation? Let's just let them play, and see how it goes from there, obviously I do not have the experience or knowledge that Coach Trotz has, so I cannot say that he is making a poor decision by rotating them.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">All in all, the Preds are looking good, and overcoming huge obstacles early in the season, and really, aren't they ALWAYS going against the odds? Didn't we make it to the playoffs with a bunch of nobodies a couple of years ago, and ALMOST make it this past year? Considering what this team has been through in its short tenure, and what Coach Trotz has been given, talent and injury-wise, I feel confident that the team will do well this year. Sure, a super-star would be incredible, but if that is not what we are meant to have, then fine, I will root for them no matter what. The Preds are my team, and I will not simply run away from them because they are having a rough time. (I do love when they win though) Call me optimistic.....it's not a dirty word.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Cannot wait for Saturday's game against the Habs too.... First game back in the Sommet Center since the incredible Stars game. Hopefully it's a GREAT and LOUD crowd for our boys.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">And as always: <span style="color:#3333ff;">LET'S GO PREDS!!!</span></span>Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-31062713131601754212009-11-04T06:27:00.000-08:002009-11-04T07:31:28.837-08:00Problems for the Preds?Weber, Wilson, AND <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dumont?</span>..........OH MY!<br /><br /> Just when Predators fans found out that Captain Arny and Toots were on their way back to the line-up, they received word that their #1 D-man Shea Weber would be out for 1-2 weeks with a foot injury, Rookie Colin Wilson <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">reaggrevated</span> his lower body injury, AND J.P. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dumont</span> left practice hurting. Does this scenario spell doom for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> just when they seemed to have found their groove on the ice?<br /> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pekka</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne</span>, with a slow start this season, has been snatching pucks out of the air with ease the past few games to help muster a 3 game win streak, but with the west-coast road trip looming on the horizon, will the depth of D-men be able to control the puck enough to keep the streak going? The goalie cannot win games by themselves, as evidenced by the Buffalo game where <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne</span>, on fire, stopped 40 of 41 shots faced.<br /> The question is, will the players returning to the line-up be able to slip in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">un</span>-noticed, or will they be just what the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> need to continue winning games?<br /> Thursday is so far away, leaving ample time for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">speculation</span>, but the true test will be on the ice. <br /> Will the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> continue their winning streak or will the Ducks, Kings, and Blues leave them Clicking their heels and saying "There's no place like home, there's no place like home, there's no place like home"?Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-22156127158576239992009-10-31T06:03:00.000-07:002009-10-31T06:57:29.657-07:00Preview: Dallas at Nashville 10/31/09Happy Hockey-ween all!<br />The first 2 games of Nashville's 09-10 season gave <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> fans big hope...... The season opener in Dallas was a 3-2 shootout victory for the visiting team with Dan Ellis in net. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Arnott</span> and Sullivan netted the 2 goals in regulation, and Mike <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Santorelli</span> scored the game winner in the shootout against <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Turco</span>. Also J.P. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dumont</span> was injured with a nasty, but seemingly legal hit from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Stephane</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Robidas</span>, missing the rest of the second and third period.<br />On October 14<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span>, the result was not so fantastic for the Predators being shutout 6-0, and starter Ellis being pulled from the goal 7 minutes in to the first period. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne</span> stepped in allowing 3 more goals in the rest of the game. Granted, the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span> were without J.P. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dumont</span> (their leading scorer last year) and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jordin</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tootoo</span>, though not an offensive threat, Toots may have been able to break up some plays, or at least lay out certain Stars players like last season.<br />With Ellis as the starter for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">lst</span> two games against Dallas, will <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotz</span> bench <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">Peks</span>, who has seemed to find his groove in favor of a goaltender with more experience against the Stars? For <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne's</span> sake, I hope not. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">Peks</span> has exhibited great confidence in the last two meetings, stepping in for Ellis against the Wild allowing no goals for the rest of the game in a huge road win, and riding high from his shutout against one of the most offensively driven teams in the NHL, the Chicago <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">Blackhawks</span> at home on Thursday.<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rinne's</span> glove is hot right now, snatching pucks out of the air with ease, in his post-game interview he credited the highly motivated defense for making it so easy for him to see the puck. Thank you SHEA WEBER and RYAN <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">SUTER</span>, from the bottom of my heart, for listening to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotz</span> and following through to help your goaltender!<br />The key to tonight's game will be CONSISTENCY.......ALL around, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">goaltending</span>, offense, and defense. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-error">Trotz</span> seems to have found his groove with the line juggling, and the team is responding well. Does everyone remember seeing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-error">Belak</span> out for a PP shift last game? Though nothing came of it, I was happy to see them taking chances on the ice, and those chances are beginning to work. Don't get me wrong, let's not go crazy here, just take the smart plays and capitalize on them!<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" class="blsp-spelling-error">SMITHERS</span>- let's go ahead and get another goal, hopefully it will not have to be short-handed because we don't want to take any penalties if we can help it! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_26" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jerred</span> you are quickly becoming a favorite of mine to watch, keep it up!<br />Currently wondering how Peter Olvecky is going to fit in to the rotation tonight after being recalled from Milwaukee..... I guess I will have to wait and see!<br />As for me, I will be rooting for the boys from 329 tonight..... then making the 2 1/2 drive home after, so the post-game wrap-up will be posted tomorrow.<br />Everyone please have a Happy and safe Hockey-ween!!!!<br />Let's go <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" class="blsp-spelling-error">Preds</span>!!!!!!!!!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-51055758784917243222009-10-29T18:49:00.000-07:002009-10-30T09:45:36.882-07:00Preds VS Blackhawks again: Post game<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"> Preds</span> fans were treated to a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">FangTastic</span> win last night against <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">arguably</span> one of the top offensive teams in the NHL, and although tweets were flying about the scratch of Martin <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Erat</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">no one</span> seemed to miss him on the ice. Coincidence or not, the Predators showed up, came together as a team and pulled out a HUGE win!<br /> First- let me say a HUGE congratulations to Pekka Rinne on his first shutout of the season. Has he gained some of his confidence back in the last week? As someone said on twitter, he was laughing and smiling during his post-game interview, even while admitting that he had lost some confidence due to his slow start. Could it be that Peks has decided to forget about the sophomore curse and begun to focus solely on the game at hand? His glove was snatching pucks out of the air and not allowing key rebounds, in turn helping his D.<br /> Weber and Suter did their homework for this game by tag-teaming Patrick Kane, not allowing him to shine with his puck handling, and cutting off key chances for the young phenom in the attack zone. Awesome hit from Weber on Kane down low, only to follow up seconds later with another check. To this I say THANK YOU, you ARE paying attention, and helping your goaltender out.<br /> Patric Hornqvist is slowly earning a huge portion of my heart, his tenacity is being shown in each and every game that he plays. His favorite hang out was the crease (as it should be) and his breakaway was beautiful, though unaffective. Just keep doing what you are doing Patric, the rest will come to you!<br /> Trotzy's line shuffles are working.... I cannot stress enough that I will not jump on the anti-Trotz movement unless he gives me something to truly get upset about. This team is having growing pains, as all teams do, and it's important that they still get support from their fans. <br /> Whatever the reason for Erat's scratch, injury or not, I hope he takes a lesson from it, and realizes that the team does not have to have him on the ice. <br /> WARD: Congrats on your first goal of the season!!!!!<br /> CUBE: thank you for the incredible set-up for Wardo to get the first goal of the game, you are slowly worming your way in to my heart as well.<br /> Was O<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Reilly</span> on the ice?? kinda quiet..... maybe I missed something...<br /> All in all, I was impressed last night, my heart was able to stay settled for most of the game, though knowing the way the Blackhawks can play, it wasn't resting. Watching the game clock tick off the last few seconds, my fingers were eager to tweet the S word for Peks, I held out though so as not to jinx him, and it paid off! <br /> AGAIN: Congrats to the Preds on an awesome win, and I hope to see the same tenacity on Saturday.....while propped in my seats in section 329. <br />Let's Go PREDS!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-27722642637154555962009-10-29T13:12:00.000-07:002009-10-29T18:15:49.181-07:00Preds VS Blackhawks- AGAINYet again the Predators are facing off against the Chicago Blackhawks at the Sommet Center in Nashville.<br /><br />Sitting and thinking about the starting goaltender for the Preds tonight, I can't help but wonder what happened over the summer. Is this truly the Sophomore curse in action for Peks, or is it simply a lack of confidence for the once un-shakable goalie? Watching as he took over for Ellis last night against the Wild, fans began to see the Peks of old... his glove seemed to have a magnetic draw to the puck, it was as though he was back in form again. My view may still be skewed because of last season where it felt like Rinne could not be beat, but this year's numbers do not fair so well for the Finn, with a save percentage at a measly .892 and GAA 3.30. As a fan, I hope he can gain the confidence back that we saw last year. We need either Ellis or Rinne to be the go-to goalie, and last year he (Rinne) filled the starting goaltender role so well, stepping in right when the team needed him most. I understand that Trotzy wants to try this 1 and 1 goalie system, but it feels as though neither goaltender is getting the chance to gain the fortitude to get the job done.<br /><br />As for tonight's game, let's just hope the WHOLE team shows up. The fire that they have exhibited in the last few meetings (except for the recent Blackhawks game) would be greatly appreciated by the fans in Smashville and outside the city limits. As a fan stuck in the most un-hockey city probably in the state of Tennessee, I will be watching and waiting to see the young talent and veterans gel on the ice.<br />I will not jump on the anti-Trotz movement because I remember what he has done with the team in the past. Have we as fans forgotten about the hands that Trotz has been dealt in the past? Remember the fire-sale? I was at the season finale against the Blues when we got the news about the Preds going to the Play-offs, it is still one of my favorite memories. Not to mention, the Preds shut-out the Detroit Red Wings 8 to nothing on a cold and snowy day last February amongst a slew of injuries, and the Wings went on to be the Western Conference Champions.... every team can have some bad luck.<br />As a Memphis Tigers fan, I have learned not to get too riled up when my favorite team loses, instead to be ecstatic when they win. Sure, consistency would be incredible, and we all love wins, but I guess I have to be optimistic... Otherwise, what fun is it to watch sports?<br /><br /><br />Let's go Preds!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-14206608774211167312009-09-20T16:22:00.000-07:002009-09-21T06:53:51.725-07:00So..... Predators VS Blue Jackets.<br /><br />Fan Fest= DUD.... I don't know about the local fans, but for those of us driving in to Nashville from the far reaches I felt like the marketing team really oversold the activities for this three day celebration. Rain the whole time, but come on. I am not sure what I was expecting, but 3 boxes of donuts, small blood drive, and tables set up for the pre-game "tailgate" which looked like an Invite-only event were not it.<br /><br />Open Practices? AWESOME!!!!!!<br />- I love the fact that I can go to the Sommet Center and sit in section 116 ( right behind the Preds bench) and hear the guys talking, watch the warm ups, and see the interaction between the players and fans. <br /><br />Toots: You giving that kid one of your sticks made his day. Seriously I don't think you guys realize how much your time means to us, the fans, who are willing to drive 3 hours just to watch you practice and of course get autos, pics, and one-on-one interaction with our favorite team.<br /><br />Thank you to all the players for the extra minute or 2 that you spend with us!!!<br /><br />To Fans: <br />PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do NOT cause a traffic jam as the players come off the ice at Centennial. Seriously, you don't need to have all the players HOLD your kid so that you can take pictures..... you know who you are...... Keep it up and they are gonna run past you, and me, and I am gonna be MAD, because I am willing to bet that on any given day that I make it to a practice I drove much further than you did. <br /><br />As far as the game goes,<br />Glad the Preds won!<br />Jones scoring the first goal made my night. The wait during the off-season for him to get re-signed was excrutiating...... well worth it though.<br /><br />Glad to hear that Toot's opponent is ok..... feel terrible that we were all cheering him on the whole time, but Sestito is huge!!!!!!!!!!!! My stomach dropped when he hit the ice, but seeing him move his legs provided a lot of relief.<br /><br />Pekka- what was going on???????? Just an off night? Too much fishing this summer? Come on, you can do better than that. <br />Ellis- great job stepping in. Glad to see you in such great form during camp too. Sunday, Thursday, and Saturday when I saw you in practice, I could tell that you wanted that starting position, and you deserve it. Keep it up!<br /><br />Blum- glad to see you on the ice for the game and really glad to see you feeling comfortable towards the end of the game...... couple of nice take- aways and your puck handling was exceptional....<br /><br />Can't see the Boys again for a while..... but on OCTOBER 8th......... I will be at the Sommet Center sporting my new Rinne shirt....Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1961717507992466430.post-19642917311726572722009-09-18T08:38:00.001-07:002009-09-18T08:50:28.711-07:00Pre-season PredsRecovering from a long day in Nashville yesterday and late night driving home to Memphis. I have found that I love Twitter and the updates that I get during the games especially since I was in Nashville last night for the Mike Birbiglia show and was unable to watch the game. Thank you to all of those people who were tweeting last night for us!Hockey-less in Memphishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12098215188320035634noreply@blogger.com0