Predators vs. Rangers: Three Keys and the Game Changers in This Afternoon's Matchup

The Nashville Predators have a tough bounce back game on the docket this afternoon as they face the New York Rangers, one of the top teams in the league that has gone 8-2 in their last ten games. After their 6-1 loss to Minnestoa Thursdsay night, the Predators will need to turn the page and be ready for a Rangers team with very few weaknesses. 

There are three areas Nashville will need to outperform the Rangers to get the win this afternoon, and none of them will be an easy task.  

The Rangers currently have the third best power play in the league and... Nashville does not. Even during their six game win streak, the Predators only averaged 18% on the man advantage. In their last two games, Nashville has gone 0/7 and against Minnesota only managed four shots in four power play chances. 

Andrew Brunette talked about the special teams challenge against the Rangers. 

After morning skate on Friday Brunette indicated that the staff was still discussing who would get the start in net for Nashville. Saros was pulled Thursday night early in the second period after Minnesota's fourth goal, but Brunette also acknowledged that Saros has played a lot of games recently. With a Saturday/Sunday back to back for the Predators, both Saros and Kevin Lankinen will likely see time in net this weekend. Whichever Finn get the nod in net for this afternoon's matchup will need much more defensive support in front of him than the team provided against the Wild. 

Igor Shesterkin and Saros were two names mentioned in preseason Vezina conversations, but Shesterkin has the numbers to continue being a part of that conversation after the first quarter of the season. Shesterkin is 9-4 in his starts with 2.54 goals against average and .915 save percentage. Veteran backup Jonathan Quick has also been great for the Rangers going 7-6-0-1 with a .930 save percentage. Nashville will need to get traffic in front of whichever goaltender Peter Laviolette starts today. 

Offensive production from depth players may play a part in the outcome of today's game. Yakov Trenin started the season snakebit, but he has four goals and five points in his last seven games.  Players like Trenin, Colton Sissons, and fourth line greasy goals will be important to counteract a Rangers' lineup that is getting plenty of offense up and down their lineup. 

New York's Jimmy Vesey didn't score his first goal until November 4, but since then he's scored five goals including two in his last three games. While each team has quality top line players, the performances of depth players like Vesey and Trenin could swing today's game. 

Rangers: Artemi Panarin

Panarin is always a threat, but his line with Alexis Lafrenière and Vincent Trocheck have been especially good this season for the Rangers. He is also a dangerous set up guy on a potent power play. 

Predators: Filip Forsberg

Nashville's top line will need to match New York's shot for shot, and the players who needs to finish those chances today is Filip Forsberg. Forsberg is on pace for his best points season yet, and this afternoon the Predators will need the Swedish forward's best against a top goaltender and team. 

The Predators welcome the Rangers to Bridgestone Arena for an afternoon game today. Puck drop is scheduled for 3:30 pm CT. The game will be broadcast on Bally Sports South and 102.5 The Game will have the radio call.