The Nashville Predators welcome back defenseman Mattias Ekholm and will have to battle Connor McDavid and the Oilers to get a win tonight at home.
The Nashville Predators will be welcoming back defenseman Mattias Ekholm who was traded to the Edmonton Oilers on February 28 as a part of Nashville's major roster reset at the trade deadline last season. Tonight marks Ekholm's first return to Bridgestone Arena, a place where he was loved and respected by the Predators fan base.
Emotions aside, tonight's game will be yet another challenge for the Predators who have been competitive in their first three outings but have only been able to secure one win. The Oilers head to Nashville with two losses to kick off their season but a host of weapons with which to get back on track.
Nashville will need to avoid giving up power play opportunities to the league's most potent power play team from last season and find a way to finish on any potential power play chances the Predators get in the game tonight.
Another key to the game? Being OK being uncomfortable. Head coach Andrew Brunette liked what he saw from the team in the first week of the season. The Predators must continue to put intro practice the new system Brunette has introduced. Tonight will be a good opportunity to find out if the Predators can continue growing as a team.
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 pm CT at Bridgestone Arena.
Timing May Not Be Right for Predators to Trade for Conor Garland