Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Shea Weber speaks on Illegal Curve Radio
With very little to report on the Predators recently, our friends over at Illegal Curve bring something to us when they actually spoke to Preds Captain Shea Weber on their weekly podcast.
Weber participated in The Goals For Dreams Charity Event and game at the The Max Bell Arena in Calgary last Saturday. Chris Mason and Colin Wilson also participated in the game.
During the interview, Weber covered a wide range of topics including the player workouts in Nashville, his recent contract, the Olympics, the CBA negotiations, and the hockey scene and fans in Smashville.
Go here to listen to the Illegal Curve podcast and hear the the entire interview.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Do not miss tonight's Predators Pizza Party at A-Game Sports!
As the lockout drags on, the Nashville Predators are having an event tonight that Preds fans do not want to miss.
Gnash is hosting a very special "Pizza Party" (free of course) at 6:15 p.m. at A-Game sports at 215 Gothic Court, in Franklin. When you enter the building go to "The Turf" which is upstairs, above the the basketball courts.
Over 500 folks are expected so be sure and arrive early and most of all, wear your gold and bring anything you can to be loud (Noisemakers, Thunder sticks, Cowbells, clappers, etc). This will be a once in a lifetime event that will go down in Predators history and that you want to be a part of.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
POTG guests on All the Kings Men podcast
As we muddle through the dog days of the lockout, I had the opportunity to guest on All The Kings Men podcast that was taped on Monday night. Thanks to Jesse Cohen and The Royal Half (aka Mr. Half) for having me on.
It was one of the more fun shows that I have participated in lately. We touched on a wide range of topics and even talked a little Dixie Flyers and "Predator Gold" jerseys.
Check it out here as well as the other shows in their series of "30 fans in 30 days" where they are making a run through the NHL with plenty of interesting folks.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
It was one of the more fun shows that I have participated in lately. We touched on a wide range of topics and even talked a little Dixie Flyers and "Predator Gold" jerseys.
Check it out here as well as the other shows in their series of "30 fans in 30 days" where they are making a run through the NHL with plenty of interesting folks.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
Thursday, October 11, 2012
FS TN to present the best of the best for hockey starved fans
With the Preds opening game against the Red Wings cancelled on Friday and the home opener gone for Saturday night, the Predators and Fox Sports Tennessee have stepped in to provide historic video footage of top games from the Predators' first 14 seasons to try to fill the void..
It all kicks off on Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. when the Predators game five, series clinching win over the Detroit Red wings is re-aired. Make the jump for all the details about upcoming "Predators' Golden Classics"...
It all kicks off on Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. when the Predators game five, series clinching win over the Detroit Red wings is re-aired. Make the jump for all the details about upcoming "Predators' Golden Classics"...
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Could Nashville's future NHL All-Star Game bid be affected by the lockout?
At this point, Nashville Predator fans appear to be somewhat optimistic that the current NHL lockout will be relatively short-lived and that their beloved Preds will be on the ice sooner than later.
Many pundits and "experts" point to the New Year's Day Winter Classic as a key date that the NHL owners, the NHLPA, as well as their broadcast partner, NBC feel that will need to take place to maintian the leagues viability as a major sport in the United States.
So what if it doesn't get resolved by year's end, or if it does, what if this year's All-Star game in Columbus is cancelled with additional regular season games added to the schedule in it's place?
Nashville, with its brand-spanking new Music City Center, set to be completed next year, adjacent to Bridgesone Arena, has been considered to be the front-runner for the next NHL All-Star game.
Prior to the lockout, there was uncertainty as to whether or not NHL players would play in the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia, which has precluded All-Star games from being held in Olympic years.
If the 2013 All-Star game were to be cancelled, would Columbus automatically be given the next one to be awarded?
Adam Proteau, of the Hockey News, recently looked at what occurred after the 2005 game was cancelled in Atlanta. There was no game in 2006 due to the Olympics. On January 23, 2006, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman disappointed the Thrasher faithful by giving the 2007 All-Star game to Dallas.
Atlanta had to wait until 2008 to finally celebrate the NHL's All-Star's visit to the Phillips Arena.
So basically, you would assume, that the Nashville Predators, as well as city officials are hoping for a quick resolution to the NHL lockout so that the picture will not be clouded with compitition from Columbus for the next All-Star game, which with NHL Olympic participation, would be in 2015.
This is just one of many unknowns as the NHL lockout trudges along with no end in sight.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Predators fill the gap with activities and games the next two Saturdays
Prior to the cancellation of the first two weeks of the NHL season, the Nashville Predators were scheduled to have a pair of the season's best draws on the first two Saturdays of the year.
On Saturday, October 13, the St. Louis Blues were set to invade Bridgestone Arena to defend their Central Division title on the Predators' home opening night.
A week later, on October 20th, the Predators had a visit from the Pittsburgh Penguins with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on the agenda.
Unfortunately, those games will not happen, along with home games with the Avalanche and Canucks during the week of October 14.
That has not prevented the Predators from doing their best to stay front and center in the hearts and minds of their loyal fans and season ticket holders.
This Saturday, October 13, The Predators are planning an series of events that will include a plaza party, open skate, youth hockey games, movie night and the Social Media Scavenger Hunt.
The scavenger hunt will begin at 10 a.m and run until 2:30 p.m. Predators' season tickets, as well as tickets to all other concerts at Brigdestone Arena, await the grand prize winners.Go here for complete details of the hunt.
The following Saturday, October 20, Nashvillians will get a rare chance to experience minor league hockey action when 102.5 The Game will present a preseason SPHL game between the Knoxville Ice Bears and Huntsville Havoc at Bridgestone Arena.
Game time will be at 7 p.m. and will be free to Predator season ticket holders and $10.25 to the public. All proceeds will go to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt as part of the Nashville Predators’ We Care for Kids program in conjunction with the National Hockey League’s Hockey Fights Cancer initiative.
Earlier in the day there will be Adult Skills Development Clinic at 1:30 p.m. CT, followed by a Vanderbilt University Alumni game at 4 p.m. Go here for details on all of the day's activities.
With NHL games being cancelled, the Nashville Predators are to be commended to doing their best to keep the Predator spirit alive in Smashville.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Monday, October 8, 2012
Predators staff continues longstanding tradition of "Community Relations Week"
While the NHL-NHLPA labor dispute trudges onward with no end in sight. The Nashville Predators organization will continue its annual "Community Relations Week."
Normally, all of the Predators' players divide up and make appearances at many of the organizations that benefit from the efforts of the Predators Foundation. This year, Nashville Predators staff members, broadcasters, coaches and personalities will be filling in for the players all over town.
Make the jump to see all the locations and who will be where...
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Do I miss the NHL? Not any more!
I saw this instead of a meaningless pre-season game
A week from tonight should have been the Predators home opener against the St. Louis Blues in a critical game as this year's version of the Preds had the best shot of winning the division title in franchise history.
I'm still a believer in the Preds potential this season (if there is one) as I placed bets on the Preds to win the Western Conference as well as the Stanley Cup when I was at Harvey's Casino in Lake Tahoe earlier this week. Granted, I was playing with house money that I collected on a wager from last season when I bet on Pekka Rinne to have the most NHL wins for the year.
What I'm not a believer in is spending a moment worrying about missing hockey due to the incredibly ridiculous "lockout" with the first two weeks of the season having already been written off.
Screw everyone involved in the process.
One of the most respected writers in the business, and president of the PHWA, Kevin Allen, laid it out simply for all parties as to where it will inevitably end up at a 50/50 split of "hockey related revenue."
At this point, both sides are posturing for the best outcome for their sides. Gary Bettman and Donald Fehr are to be commended for their efforts for the parties that they represent.
However, they should be condemned for what they are doing to the fans and the workers who depend on games being played in order to put food on the table for their families.
I personally am losing income, based on web page hit count, because I refuse to put up a post every day about nonsense about negotiations and things that don't matter for a season that never was (so far).
Will I be all excited and ready to write daily updates about the Predators when, and if there is a new CBA and hockey returns? At this point, I really don't know.
I have had plenty to keep me occupied in the last couple of weeks during what should have been the preseason when I could have been talking to Austin Watson or many of the other Pred's prospects about their first real shot at the NHL during training camp.
I have traveled to Crater Lake and the Oregon coast, spent the night at Point Arena Lighthouse, and went to Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe. In my travels, I didn't meet one person who gave a flying flip about the NHL or the lockout, and I didn't either.
Last night, I came completely unglued over the horrible call on the "infield fly" ruling in the Atlanta Braves wild-card game with the Cardinals. Was I missing NHL hockey? Not at all. I was emotionally tied to my former favorite sports franchise, the Braves.
Tonight, I'm trying to absorb four college football games that I normally would have ignored if hockey was staring next week. Am I thinking about hockey? Not at all other than realizing that I don't miss it while I tie in to other things.
The NHL and the NHLPA should be concerned when a writer who has committed forty to fifty hours a week to their cause in exchange for minimal income finds other ways to pass time.
Therefore, I don't want to hear about negotiations on non-financial points or anything else that desperate hockey writers want to post as news until there is something real to discuss..
When an agreement is signed on the dotted line, wake me up and see if I care.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Friday, October 5, 2012
Predators renew agreement with Cincinnati
While the NHL Predators continue to be locked out of Bridgestone Arena, some Predator prospects will again be playing in Cincinnati for the Cyclones of the ECHL again this season.
The Predators announced that their agreement with the team would continue this season which will allow Preds prospects as well as those hoping to earn as spot in Milwaukee a place to play. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS RENEW AFFILIATION WITH THE CINCINNATI CYCLONES
- Predators’ secondary developmental affiliate the past five seasons has won two Kelly Cup titles since 2008-
Nashville, Tenn. (October 5, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has renewed its affiliation with the ECHL’s Cincinnati Cyclones. The Cyclones have served as Nashville’s secondary developmental affiliate since the 2007-08 season, winning a pair of Kelly Cup titles (2008 and 2010) in that span.
The Cyclones will function as a developmental affiliate for both Nashville, and its primary developmental affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League. Cincinnati plays its home games at the 14,453-seat U.S. Bank Arena, located downtown next to Great American Ballpark.
“Partnering with a franchise that has a tradition of winning, in a city with a strong hockey history, will allow our players to develop as professionals in a successful environment,” Predators Assistant General Manager Paul Fenton said. “We are confident that those Cyclones who are called upon will contribute consistently to the success of the Milwaukee Admirals. The Predators are excited to continue our relationship with the Cyclones.”
Founded in 1990 as an ECHL franchise, the Cyclones competed in the International Hockey League (IHL) from 1992-2001. The Cyclones went 23-17-4 (.568 winning percentage) in games versus Milwaukee during that nine-year stretch. After the IHL ceased operations in 2001, the Cyclones returned to the ECHL for three more seasons.
After two seasons of inactivity – including one without professional hockey in Cincinnati – the Cyclones rejoined the ECHL in time for 2006-07, and quickly captured two Kelly Cup championships (2008 and 2010), two North Division titles (2008 and 2009), a Brabham Cup (league’s best record) and made three consecutive trips to the American Conference Finals (2008, 2009 and 2010).
During Cincinnati’s run to the 2010 Kelly Cup, Predators 2007 second-round pick Jeremy Smith garnered co-playoff MVP honors, minding the Cyclones net in 17 of their 24 games. In 2011-12, Nashville prospects Chet Pickard (2008 first-round pick), Taylor Aronson (2010 third-round pick) and Ben Ryan (2007 fourth-round pick) all saw time with the club.
The Cyclones have been under the guidance of Head Coach Jarrod Skalde since the 2010-11 season. The Niagara Falls, Ont., native has 20 years of service in professional hockey, 17 as a player in the NHL, IHL, AHL and overseas, and as a head coach since 2008.
The ECHL is the leading professional developmental league for the American Hockey League and the National Hockey League. The league began in 1988-89 with five teams in three states and has grown to be a coast-to-coast circuit that will see 23 teams playing in 16 states in 2011-12, its 25th season. There have been nearly 500 former ECHL players who have gone on to play in the NHL after playing in the ECHL.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Since the NHL is in a lockout... (Part 3)
...the Predators decided to send us a nice box in the mail with tickets for events that may never be held.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Since the NHL is in a lockout... (Part 2)
What are you doing this weekend? Hanging with us, that's what!
Your favorite Nashville Predators blogs are banding together in the name of a good time! Hockey Night in Nashville, Inside Smashville, Section303, Puck Scene, Smashville 24/7, Preds On the Glass and Penalty Box Radio are all inviting you to forget all about the lockout and join some of us at The Belcourt on Friday at 6:00pm.
Award-winning comedian Mike Birbiglia has been touring the country for over 10 years. He's released successful albums such as Dog Years (2004), Two Drink Mike (2006) and My Secret Public Journal Live (2007) as well as a hilarious DVD entitled What I Should Have Said Was Nothing (2008). His most recent effort, Sleepwalk With Me, started as an album, became a best selling book and is now a feature film.
The film version is making its way to Nashville for a limited run and we want you to experience it with us! After all, there's no pre-season anymore so you might as well get together with 100 of your closest friends and come on out for a good time!
Tickets are just $8.75 for adults and $7.25 for students, children and military members. Speaking of children, if you're wondering whether you can bring your kids, the film isn't rated but Birbiglia tweeted that the rating would be PG-13.
Sleepwalk has earned an 86% fresh rating on movie review site Rotten Tomatoes so you know it's going to be a good time. Plus, several of your favorite Predators bloggers are Birbigs-heads, which often results in random Birbiglia-reciting up on bloggers row during Predators games. (If that's not a testament to his humor, we don't know what is.) Birbiglia was our guest on The 303:30 back in September of 2009, just days before his last live gig in Music City.
CLICK HERE to get your tickets, then join us on Friday night at the Belcourt.
More Later..
Jeremy Gover Special for PredsOntheGlass
Your favorite Nashville Predators blogs are banding together in the name of a good time! Hockey Night in Nashville, Inside Smashville, Section303, Puck Scene, Smashville 24/7, Preds On the Glass and Penalty Box Radio are all inviting you to forget all about the lockout and join some of us at The Belcourt on Friday at 6:00pm.
Award-winning comedian Mike Birbiglia has been touring the country for over 10 years. He's released successful albums such as Dog Years (2004), Two Drink Mike (2006) and My Secret Public Journal Live (2007) as well as a hilarious DVD entitled What I Should Have Said Was Nothing (2008). His most recent effort, Sleepwalk With Me, started as an album, became a best selling book and is now a feature film.
The film version is making its way to Nashville for a limited run and we want you to experience it with us! After all, there's no pre-season anymore so you might as well get together with 100 of your closest friends and come on out for a good time!
Tickets are just $8.75 for adults and $7.25 for students, children and military members. Speaking of children, if you're wondering whether you can bring your kids, the film isn't rated but Birbiglia tweeted that the rating would be PG-13.
Sleepwalk has earned an 86% fresh rating on movie review site Rotten Tomatoes so you know it's going to be a good time. Plus, several of your favorite Predators bloggers are Birbigs-heads, which often results in random Birbiglia-reciting up on bloggers row during Predators games. (If that's not a testament to his humor, we don't know what is.) Birbiglia was our guest on The 303:30 back in September of 2009, just days before his last live gig in Music City.
CLICK HERE to get your tickets, then join us on Friday night at the Belcourt.
More Later..
Jeremy Gover Special for PredsOntheGlass
NHL Cancels September Preseason Games
Not unexpectedly, the National Hockey League has cancelled all preseason games through September 30, 2012 as well as delaying the Kraft Hockeyville game in Belleville, Ontario until 2013. Here is the official release from the NHL...
NHL announces cancellation of preseason schedule through Sept. 30
NEW YORK – The National Hockey League announced today the cancellation of the 2012 preseason schedule through Sept. 30. In addition, the 2012 Kraft Hockeyville preseason game, scheduled for Oct. 3 in Belleville, Ontario, has been postponed to 2013.
The cancellation of the schedule was necessary because of the absence of a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NHL Players’ Association and the NHL.
While the Kraft Hockeyville game has been postponed, many of the scheduled celebrations in the winning community of Stirling-Rawdon, Ontario, will proceed as planned beginning on Sept. 30.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
NHL announces cancellation of preseason schedule through Sept. 30
NEW YORK – The National Hockey League announced today the cancellation of the 2012 preseason schedule through Sept. 30. In addition, the 2012 Kraft Hockeyville preseason game, scheduled for Oct. 3 in Belleville, Ontario, has been postponed to 2013.
The cancellation of the schedule was necessary because of the absence of a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NHL Players’ Association and the NHL.
While the Kraft Hockeyville game has been postponed, many of the scheduled celebrations in the winning community of Stirling-Rawdon, Ontario, will proceed as planned beginning on Sept. 30.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Since the NHL is in a lockout... (Part 1)
Since the NHL is in a lockout, we need to find new ways to amuse ourselves. September 19 is International Talk Like a Pirate Day so... "Drink up me 'earties, yo ho."
A Pirate's Life For Me (Yo Ho)
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We pillage plunder, we rifle and loot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We kidnap and ravage and don't give a hoot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We extort and pilfer, we filch and sack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Maraud and embezzle and even highjack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We kindle and char and in flame and ignite.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We burn up the city, we're really a fright.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're rascals and scoundrels, we're villians and knaves.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're devils and black sheep, we're really bad eggs.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're beggars and blighters and ne'er do-well cads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Aye, but we're loved by our mommies and dads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
A Pirate's Life For Me (Yo Ho)
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We pillage plunder, we rifle and loot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We kidnap and ravage and don't give a hoot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We extort and pilfer, we filch and sack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Maraud and embezzle and even highjack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We kindle and char and in flame and ignite.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We burn up the city, we're really a fright.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're rascals and scoundrels, we're villians and knaves.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're devils and black sheep, we're really bad eggs.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're beggars and blighters and ne'er do-well cads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Aye, but we're loved by our mommies and dads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Predators sign Craig Smith as countdown to the lockout continues
With less than six hours remaining before the NHL owners are expected to lockout the players, the Nashville Predators announced that they have signed forward Craig Smith to a two year contract extension.
This season will be the final year of Smith's entry level contract that will pay him $900,000 this year. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN CRAIG SMITH TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (September 15, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Craig Smith to a two-year, $4 million contract that will pay him $2 million in both 2013-14 and 2014-15.
Smith, 23 (9/5/89), tied for seventh among all NHL rookies in goals (14) and assists (22), and ranked eighth in points (36) in 72 games during the 2011-12 season. The point and assist totals were the second highest by a rookie in Predators franchise history. The 6-0, 196-pounder also tied for second among first-year NHLers in power-play goals (6), and participated in the rookie portion of the 2012 All-Star Weekend.
A native of Madison, Wis., Smith was Nashville's sixth choice, 98th overall (fourth round), in the 2009 Entry Draft. He spent two seasons at the University of Wisconsin from 2009-11, notching 76 points (27g-49a) in 82 games and helping the Badgers advance to the 2010 NCAA National Championship Game. He has represented the United States at the past two World Championships, being named one of Team USA’s three best players at the 2011 World Championships after leading the team in goals (3) and ranking second in points (6).
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
This season will be the final year of Smith's entry level contract that will pay him $900,000 this year. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN CRAIG SMITH TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (September 15, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Craig Smith to a two-year, $4 million contract that will pay him $2 million in both 2013-14 and 2014-15.
Smith, 23 (9/5/89), tied for seventh among all NHL rookies in goals (14) and assists (22), and ranked eighth in points (36) in 72 games during the 2011-12 season. The point and assist totals were the second highest by a rookie in Predators franchise history. The 6-0, 196-pounder also tied for second among first-year NHLers in power-play goals (6), and participated in the rookie portion of the 2012 All-Star Weekend.
A native of Madison, Wis., Smith was Nashville's sixth choice, 98th overall (fourth round), in the 2009 Entry Draft. He spent two seasons at the University of Wisconsin from 2009-11, notching 76 points (27g-49a) in 82 games and helping the Badgers advance to the 2010 NCAA National Championship Game. He has represented the United States at the past two World Championships, being named one of Team USA’s three best players at the 2011 World Championships after leading the team in goals (3) and ranking second in points (6).
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
Predators sign Kevin Klein to five-year extension
Less than twelve hours before NHL owners plan to lock out the players, the Nashville Predators signed defenseman Kevin Klein to a cap friendly five-year, $14.5 million contract that solidifies another piece of the Preds' blueline for the next six seasons.
Klein is entering the final year of a three year contract that has paid him $1.35 million a year and the new deal will run through the 2017-18 season. Here is the full release from the Predators...
Klein is entering the final year of a three year contract that has paid him $1.35 million a year and the new deal will run through the 2017-18 season. Here is the full release from the Predators...
Predators load up the bus to Milwaukee prior to lockout
Friday was originally planned as the day that the Nashville Predators' rookies and younger players would report to camp to seek furtherance of their career in the National Hockey League.
It turned out to be a horse of a different color with the pending lockout set for Saturday night at 11:59 p.m. CDT. Instead of heading to Smashville for a chance at "the show," twenty three players are headed elsewhere for the start of camp.
The Milwaukee Admirals will be the primary beneficiary of 22 top Preds prospects while recent signee, Colton Sissons, has been loaned to his junior team in the WHL.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
It turned out to be a horse of a different color with the pending lockout set for Saturday night at 11:59 p.m. CDT. Instead of heading to Smashville for a chance at "the show," twenty three players are headed elsewhere for the start of camp.
The Milwaukee Admirals will be the primary beneficiary of 22 top Preds prospects while recent signee, Colton Sissons, has been loaned to his junior team in the WHL.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
Friday, September 14, 2012
Predators sign Bourque as the clock winds down
With the probable lockout looming just hours away, the Nashville Predators signed Gabriel Bourque to a new two-year deal that will start in the 2013-14 season after his entry level deal expires this season.
Interestingly, there is no mention of it being a two-way deal so the Preds appear confident that he will be in Smashville for good after the coming season. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN BOURQUE TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (September 14, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Gabriel Bourque to a two-year, $1.55 million contract which starts with the 2013-14 season. The deal will pay him $725,000 in 2013-14 and $825,000 in 2014-15.
Bourque, 21 (9/23/90), posted 19 points (7g-12a) in 43 games during his rookie NHL season in 2011-12, ranking ninth in points per game among rookies who appeared in at least half their team’s games (.44). During the 2012 playoffs, the 5-10, 192-pound winger tied for the team lead in goals (3), and ranked third in points (5), also ranking among the rookie leaders in both categories. Bourque set franchise records for points (3g-1a-4pts) and plus-minus rating (+5) by a rookie in a playoff series in Nashville’s Western Conference Quarterfinal victory vs. Detroit, which included scoring two goals, including the game winner, in his NHL playoff debut in Game One, making him the third player in the last 14 playoff years to attain the feat.
The Rimouski, Que., native – selected 132nd overall (fifth round), in the 2009 Entry Draft – helped Moncton win the 2010 President’s Trophy as QMJHL Champions and advance to the 2010 Memorial Cup, being awarded the 2010 Guy Lafleur Trophy as playoffs MVP in the process. Bourque earned a silver medal with Canada at the 2010 World Junior Championships.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Interestingly, there is no mention of it being a two-way deal so the Preds appear confident that he will be in Smashville for good after the coming season. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN BOURQUE TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (September 14, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Gabriel Bourque to a two-year, $1.55 million contract which starts with the 2013-14 season. The deal will pay him $725,000 in 2013-14 and $825,000 in 2014-15.
Bourque, 21 (9/23/90), posted 19 points (7g-12a) in 43 games during his rookie NHL season in 2011-12, ranking ninth in points per game among rookies who appeared in at least half their team’s games (.44). During the 2012 playoffs, the 5-10, 192-pound winger tied for the team lead in goals (3), and ranked third in points (5), also ranking among the rookie leaders in both categories. Bourque set franchise records for points (3g-1a-4pts) and plus-minus rating (+5) by a rookie in a playoff series in Nashville’s Western Conference Quarterfinal victory vs. Detroit, which included scoring two goals, including the game winner, in his NHL playoff debut in Game One, making him the third player in the last 14 playoff years to attain the feat.
The Rimouski, Que., native – selected 132nd overall (fifth round), in the 2009 Entry Draft – helped Moncton win the 2010 President’s Trophy as QMJHL Champions and advance to the 2010 Memorial Cup, being awarded the 2010 Guy Lafleur Trophy as playoffs MVP in the process. Bourque earned a silver medal with Canada at the 2010 World Junior Championships.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
An alternative view of the NHL lockout
On Saturday night at 11:59 p.m. EDT, the National Hockey League plans to lockout the players if no new Collective Bargaining Agreement is reached before the deadline.
As it currently stands, no meetings are planned and the sides are miles apart. In 2004, the last time that the CBA was up for grabs, there was a three month delay before further negotiations were attempted and eventually the entire season was lost.
Hockey fans lived through the ordeal when the 2004-05 season was the first season completely lost due to labor strife in the history of North American professional sports. The NHL returned after the layoff with new rules that quickened the pace of the game and fans quickly returned to the sport that they loved.
The NHL and the NHL Players Association are again banking on the fan's patience and their assumption that fans will put another lockout behind them and return in the same manner.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman offended many fans last month when he arrogantly stated "We recovered last time because we have the world’s greatest fans."
That may have worked in 2004 but will it fly once again?
I was probably one of the few followers of the game that actually enjoyed the time away from the rink during the last lockout. I had two son's playing hockey and a mother living out her last few months of life. I had plenty to do and made lasting memories with my boys and mother instead of going to NHL games.
When hockey returned, I did too, and was somewhat refreshed from a year where I didn't drive 100 miles fifty times in a six month period to attend games.
Now as we await the lockout keys turning, instead of being up in arms that the owners and players will give fans the middle finger once again, fans should start planning how to live life to its fullest.
I really like Jiff peanut butter. If it suddenly became unavailable I would not be happy. I would begrudgingly buy Skippy or Peter Pan and move on.
Hockey fans should do the same. Go to minor or junior games or if you are really Jonesing for a cold building, go watch a bunch of kids play at the local house league. Football, pro or college, the baseball postseason, or many other sports are not affected by the lockout if you savor the stadium experience.
Better yet, check out other things that you have never been able to do in the fall because of your dying allegiance to the sport of hockey. With all the money saved on tickets, parking and food and beverages, there are plenty of options out there.
Each dollar you don't spend on "hockey related revenue" is one dollar less for the millionaires to fight over. At some point, they may miss a few of your dollars and decide to play hockey again.
My suggestion is that fans tune out all the negotiations (or lack of them) and try to live life to its fullest in the extra time you are being given. Time is one of the few things that you can't make more of or increase. Value every minute and don't waste it worrying about something that is completely out of your control.
Personally, I am enjoying the extra time I have been given and have not used one ounce of emotional energy being upset about the lack of hockey. I'm not the least bit concerned about the players or owners since, to an extent, they control their own destiny.
The folks that we should be concerned about in this whole mess are all the folks who depend on NHL games to put food on the family table by working part-time jobs at the rink or are in businesses that depend on 41 home games to make payroll and keep the doors open. Our prayers go out to them.
In summary, I'm sure everyone is hopeful for a quick resolution to the situation but instead of being upset, consider it a vacation and enjoy the extra time you have with your family and friends.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Fox Sports to televise at least 68 Predators games
In a joint announcement from the Nashville Predators and Fox Sports TN, it was revealed that 68 Predators games are scheduled to be televised over the Preds TV network this season. All will be available in HD.
Additionally, NBC Sports Network will televise three games so that 40 of 41 road games will be televised as well as 31 home games. Here is the link to the complete schedule.
Make the jump for the full release from the Preds and FSTN...
Additionally, NBC Sports Network will televise three games so that 40 of 41 road games will be televised as well as 31 home games. Here is the link to the complete schedule.
Make the jump for the full release from the Preds and FSTN...
Blum, last Predators' RFA, signs one-year, two-way deal
With an NHL lockout two days away, the Nashville Predators signed RFA Jon Blum to a new one-year, two-way contract. Here are the details from the Preds...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN BLUM TO A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (September 13, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed defenseman Jonathon Blum to a one-year, two-way contract worth $650,000 at the NHL level and $105,000 at the AHL level.
Blum, 23 (1/30/89), played in 33 games with Nashville in 2011-12, recording seven points (3g-4a), and 48 games with the AHL’s Milwaukee Admirals, notching 26 points (4g-22a). The 6-1, 191-pound blueliner saw his first action with the Predators in 2010-11, playing 23 regular season games before suiting up for all 12 of the team’s 2011 postseason contests, recording two assists and ranking fourth among team defensemen in average ice time (18:51). In 56 career regular season NHL contests, Blum has 15 points (6g-9a).
A native of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., Blum became the first native of the Golden State to be selected in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft when Nashville selected him 23rd overall in the 2007 Entry Draft. Blum rounded out a decorated junior career with the Vancouver Giants (WHL) in 2009 by being named CHL Defenseman of the Year, and as the franchise’s all-time leader in defensive scoring (248gp, 49g-155a204pts). During his tenure, the team claimed four division titles, two conference titles, a WHL Championship and a Memorial Cup Championship.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Predators sign Colton Sissons to ELC
With the NHL lockout looming on Saturday, things have been relativly quiet on the Predators' front. Nasville did announce the signing of 2012 second round draft pick, Colton Sissons, to a three-year entry-level contract today.
The details from the Predators follows...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN 2012 SECOND ROUNDER COLTON SISSONS
Nashville, Tenn. (September 13, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed 2012 second-round draft pick Colton Sissons (KOHL-tuhn SIH-suhnz) to a three-year entry-level contract.
Sissons, 18 (11/5/93), is entering his second season as captain of the Western Hockey League’s Kelowna Rockets in 2012-13. A season ago, the 6-0, 187-pound right wing ranked second on Kelowna in goals (26), and tied for third in points (41), in addition to pacing the club in power-play goals (13). Sissons also captained Team Orr to a 2-1 victory at the 2012 Home Hardware Top Prospects Game and served as an alternate captain for Team WHL at the 2011 Subway Super Series.
The North Vancouver, B.C., was Nashville's second choice, 50th overall (second round), in 2012 Entry Draft, and says he models his game after Predators forward Mike Fisher.
More later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Smashville on the Glass Radio with guest Chris Johnston
After a summer hiatus, Ryan Porth and I returned with a new "Lockout Looming" edition of Smashville on the Glass Radio.
No one has been closer to the negotiations than Chris who is the primary hockey writer for the Canadian Press and NHL Network panelist. Chris gives his insight and has a surprisingly optimistic outlook that hockey will return sooner than many have speculated.
Ryan also has an interview with Colin Wilson and there is plenty of Preds discussion to round out the show. Take a listen in the following player or go to iTunes to download.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
No one has been closer to the negotiations than Chris who is the primary hockey writer for the Canadian Press and NHL Network panelist. Chris gives his insight and has a surprisingly optimistic outlook that hockey will return sooner than many have speculated.
Ryan also has an interview with Colin Wilson and there is plenty of Preds discussion to round out the show. Take a listen in the following player or go to iTunes to download.
Listen to internet radio with SmashvilleOnTheGlass on Blog Talk Radio
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Monday, August 20, 2012
Predators lock up Mike Fisher with two-year extension
The Nashville Predators had big news at their annual Skate of the Union address when they announced that Milk Fisher agreed to a two-year extension that will keep him in Nashville for the next three seasons. Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN MIKE FISHER TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (August 20, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Mike Fisher to a two-year, $8.4 million contract that will pay him $4.2 million in both 2013-14 and 2014-15.
Fisher, 32 (6/5/80), ranked second on the Predators in goals (24) and third in points (51) in 2011-12, in addition to ranking 11th in the NHL in game-winning goals (7). His offensive numbers – coupled with his solid defensive play (he posted a +11 and tied for eighth among NHL forwards in blocked shots with 76) – earned him the seventh-most votes for the Selke Trophy. The Peterborough, Ont., native also became the franchise’s second-ever award winner as the recipient of the 2012 NHL Foundation Award, which recognizes a player who applies the core values of hockey – commitment, perseverance and teamwork – to enrich the lives of people in his community. In 774 career regular-season NHL games with Ottawa and Nashville since 1999, Fisher has amassed 411 points (196g-215a). In 97 playoff contests, he has 39 points (18g-21a) and advanced to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals.
Ottawa’s second selection, 44th overall (second round), in the 1998 Entry Draft was acquired by the Predators on Feb. 10, 2011 and proceeded to pace the club in points (3g-3a-6pts) during the franchise’s first-ever series victory over Anaheim in the 2011 Western Conference Quarterfinals. He has twice represented Canada at the World Championships (2005 and 2009), earning a silver medal on both occasions.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN MIKE FISHER TO A TWO-YEAR CONTRACT
Nashville, Tenn. (August 20, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Mike Fisher to a two-year, $8.4 million contract that will pay him $4.2 million in both 2013-14 and 2014-15.
Fisher, 32 (6/5/80), ranked second on the Predators in goals (24) and third in points (51) in 2011-12, in addition to ranking 11th in the NHL in game-winning goals (7). His offensive numbers – coupled with his solid defensive play (he posted a +11 and tied for eighth among NHL forwards in blocked shots with 76) – earned him the seventh-most votes for the Selke Trophy. The Peterborough, Ont., native also became the franchise’s second-ever award winner as the recipient of the 2012 NHL Foundation Award, which recognizes a player who applies the core values of hockey – commitment, perseverance and teamwork – to enrich the lives of people in his community. In 774 career regular-season NHL games with Ottawa and Nashville since 1999, Fisher has amassed 411 points (196g-215a). In 97 playoff contests, he has 39 points (18g-21a) and advanced to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals.
Ottawa’s second selection, 44th overall (second round), in the 1998 Entry Draft was acquired by the Predators on Feb. 10, 2011 and proceeded to pace the club in points (3g-3a-6pts) during the franchise’s first-ever series victory over Anaheim in the 2011 Western Conference Quarterfinals. He has twice represented Canada at the World Championships (2005 and 2009), earning a silver medal on both occasions.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Friday, August 17, 2012
Predators add experience to their defense with the signing of Scott Hannan
The Nashville Predators made a move to add another experienced defenseman to their roster this morning with the announcement of the signing of Scott Hannan.
Here is the full release from the Predators...
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SIGN DEFENSEMAN SCOTT HANNAN
Nashville, Tenn. (August 17, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed defenseman Scott Hannan to a one-year, $1 million contract.
Hannan, 33 (1/23/79), has amassed 197 points (33g-164a) and 522 penalty minutes in 908 regular-season games and 15 points (1g-14a) and 89 penalty minutes in 82 playoff games with San Jose, Colorado, Washington and Calgary since the 1998-99 season. The 6-1, 225-pound blueliner enters the 2012-13 season having played more games than any NHL defenseman in the last 10 seasons (798). Hannan dressed for 75-or-more games for the 11th consecutive season (78), and averaged more than 20 minutes of ice time for the ninth time in the last 10 seasons (20:21) with the Calgary Flames a season ago.
The Richmond, B.C., native was drafted 23rd overall (first round) by San Jose in the 1997 Entry Draft, and was part of the gold medal-winning Canadian squad at the 2004 World Cup of Hockey. He joins captain Shea Weber as Kelowna Rocket alums in the Predators organization, having posted 139 points (46g-91a) and 339 penalty minutes in 235 games with the club from 1995-99.
With the Hannan signing, the Predators now have two defensemen with more than 800 games of NHL experience for the first time in franchise history (Hannan, 908gp; Hal Gill, 1,070gp). Both veterans – in addition to top-four blueliner Kevin Klein – also perennially rank among the League leaders in average penalty kill time on ice and blocked shots. That trio joins the two-time Norris Trophy runner-up Weber and talented, offensively gifted under-23 NHLers Roman Josi and Ryan Ellis, giving the Predators both three left shooting and three right shooting defensemen among their balanced top-six corps.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Details announced for Monday's Predators Skate of the Union
NASHVILLE PREDATORS SKATE OF THE UNION TOWN HALL MEETING SET FOR MONDAY, AUGUST 20
-Event highlighted by autograph session, open skate and Town Hall meeting-
WHAT: Nashville Predators’ Skate of the Union Town Hall Meeting
·Event highlighted by player autographs, open skate, select a seat/open house, Pro Shop deals, an auction item fire sale, Smashville Rewards demo, Smash Hit Karaoke and Town Hall meeting.
WHO: Nashville Predators players, executives and personalities
WHEN: Monday, August 20, 4-8 p.m.
·4-5:30 p.m. – Open skate
·4:30-6 p.m. – Photo opportunities with select players
·5-6 p.m. – Player autographs on concourse
·6:15-6:45 p.m. – Q&A with select players on stage
·6:45-7:45 p.m. – Town Hall meeting with Tom Cigarran, Jeff Cogen, Sean Henry, David Poile and Peter Horachek. Questions may be submitted online via social media and at main doors of event
WHERE: Bridgestone Arena, 501 Broadway, Nashville TN
NOTES: Players scheduled to appear include Jon Blum, Mike Fisher, Paul Gaustad, Hal Gill, Kevin Klein, Chris Mason, Brian McGrattan, Craig Smith and Colin Wilson.
Attendees to Monday’s event will receive a special discount of 25 percent on tickets to Petey’s Preds Party on September 17.
The Predators flagship radio station 102.5 The Game will broadcast live from the Skate of the Union Town Hall Meeting.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Predators month-long celebration begins today with Bridgestone Open House
The Nashville Predators kick off what will be a month long celebration of all things Preds hockey today with an open house at Bridgestone Arena today.
Later this month there will be a town hall forum with players and coaches at the annueal Skate of the union address.
Predators Executive Vice President Chris Parker explained the events, “Our annual Skate of the Union event has grown so much over the years that we have decided to make the festivities even grander by breaking them up into two separate events. Next Saturday’s (today) on-sale event will feature an Open House that includes several popular fan experiences such as a used equipment sale, locker room tours and an open skate. The festivities will culminate later in August with a Town Hall Meeting featuring Shea Weber, David Poile, Barry Trotz, Tom Cigarran and Jeff Cogen.”
Here is a breakdown of all of todays events...
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
·Arrive to be Entered to Win a Pair of 2012-13 Season Tickets – 10-11 a.m.
·Box Office Opens/Tickets on Sale – 10 a.m.
·Stick-n-Puck Session – 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Stick-n-Puck session is good for players of all ages (youth and adult) to get on the ice and work on different puck handling and shooting skills. Instruction will not be provided. Full ice hockey equipment required; participants must supply their own equipment Skate and shoot at your own risk.
·Used Equipment Sale – 11 a.m. for Season Ticket Holders, 12 p.m. for the General Public
·Open Skate – 2-4 p.m., must bring own skates
·Preds Foundation Auction Item Fire Sale – 2-4 p.m.
·Pro-Shop Sidewalk Sale – All Day
·Locker Room Tours – Throughout the Day
·Inflatables and Fun on the Plaza - All Day
·Tax Free Weekend – Saturday, Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 5 at 5 p.m.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Monday, July 30, 2012
Let’s turn Chick Fil-A Day into You Can Play Day
Several weeks ago when I first read Chick Fil-A CEO, Dan Cathy’s interview with Baptist Press where he expressed his beliefs about traditional marriage, I told the wife that the gauntlet had been thrown down and that an uproar was forthcoming.
For the record, his quote was stated as follows:
"We are very much supportive of the family - the biblical definition of the family unit. We are a family-owned business, a family-led business, and we are married to our first wives. We give God thanks for that.”
"We operate as a family business ... our restaurants are typically led by families; some are single. We want to do anything we possibly can to strengthen families. We are very much committed to that."
"We intend to stay the course. We know that it might not be popular with everyone, but thank the Lord, we live in a country where we can share our values and operate on biblical principles."
As Americans, we can all agree to support everyone’s first amendment right to speak their opinion (including Cathy’s) but we have to be realistic enough to realize that when we speak openly on topics that not everyone agrees on, backlash will ensue.
Cathy appears to be a shrewd businessman and has put his integrity and beliefs before worshiping the almighty dollar which is commendable these days.
Unfortunately, what has resulted is heightening of the great devide between Bible thumpin’ “Christians” and those who oppose bigotry based on sexual orientation, which goes well beyond those of the LGBT community.
As we sit in the year 2012, anyone who does not have gay friends, co-workers, and acquantences is either blind or living with their heads in the sand (or up their a__).
There are many “Christian” couples that have good marriages as well as many gay couples that would have good marriges if all things were equal. One type of “marriage” is allowed in all 50 states and the other isn’t.
So why do we have one side lining up to eat tons of marginal chicken product on August 1st, while the media is creating a war and trying to draw many others who would like to live peacefully as gay couples into the middle of the malstrom?
Predators’ defenseman Hal Gill had the perfect commentary on Twitter last week, “Can someone please explain to me how gay marriage effects my life? #liveandletlive #freedom.”
Many players and Captains in the National Hockey League are on the front lines in the You Can Play initiative who’s mission is as follows:
”You Can Play is dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation.”
“You Can Play works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by other athletes and fans alike, only by what they contribute to the sport or their team’s success.”
“You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete’s skills, work ethic and competitive spirit.”
Predators Captain Shea Weber was an early promoter of You Can Play when he shared the following video with Carey Price.
Maybe I’m in the minority of those who follow Jesus Christ but instead of having a day of protest and hate on August 1, I challenge our readers, hockey fans, and everyone else to do something positive to celebrate the day.
Go to YouCanPlayProject.org and join all those that believe in safety and equality for all on and off the ice regardless of their sexual orientation. Let’s turn a day of hate and anger into one that promotes a positive message.
More Later…
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
For the record, his quote was stated as follows:
"We are very much supportive of the family - the biblical definition of the family unit. We are a family-owned business, a family-led business, and we are married to our first wives. We give God thanks for that.”
"We operate as a family business ... our restaurants are typically led by families; some are single. We want to do anything we possibly can to strengthen families. We are very much committed to that."
"We intend to stay the course. We know that it might not be popular with everyone, but thank the Lord, we live in a country where we can share our values and operate on biblical principles."
As Americans, we can all agree to support everyone’s first amendment right to speak their opinion (including Cathy’s) but we have to be realistic enough to realize that when we speak openly on topics that not everyone agrees on, backlash will ensue.
Cathy appears to be a shrewd businessman and has put his integrity and beliefs before worshiping the almighty dollar which is commendable these days.
Unfortunately, what has resulted is heightening of the great devide between Bible thumpin’ “Christians” and those who oppose bigotry based on sexual orientation, which goes well beyond those of the LGBT community.
As we sit in the year 2012, anyone who does not have gay friends, co-workers, and acquantences is either blind or living with their heads in the sand (or up their a__).
There are many “Christian” couples that have good marriages as well as many gay couples that would have good marriges if all things were equal. One type of “marriage” is allowed in all 50 states and the other isn’t.
So why do we have one side lining up to eat tons of marginal chicken product on August 1st, while the media is creating a war and trying to draw many others who would like to live peacefully as gay couples into the middle of the malstrom?
Predators’ defenseman Hal Gill had the perfect commentary on Twitter last week, “Can someone please explain to me how gay marriage effects my life? #liveandletlive #freedom.”
Many players and Captains in the National Hockey League are on the front lines in the You Can Play initiative who’s mission is as follows:
”You Can Play is dedicated to ensuring equality, respect and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation.”
“You Can Play works to guarantee that athletes are given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by other athletes and fans alike, only by what they contribute to the sport or their team’s success.”
“You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator areas by focusing only on an athlete’s skills, work ethic and competitive spirit.”
Predators Captain Shea Weber was an early promoter of You Can Play when he shared the following video with Carey Price.
Maybe I’m in the minority of those who follow Jesus Christ but instead of having a day of protest and hate on August 1, I challenge our readers, hockey fans, and everyone else to do something positive to celebrate the day.
Go to YouCanPlayProject.org and join all those that believe in safety and equality for all on and off the ice regardless of their sexual orientation. Let’s turn a day of hate and anger into one that promotes a positive message.
More Later…
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Jeff Cogen and Kevin Allen appear on SmashvilleOnTheGlass Radio
Nashville Predators CEO Jeff Cogen and USA Today's Kevin Allen joined Ryan Porth and me on this week's episode of SmashvilleOnTheGlass Radio.
Cogen details the process that the Predators went through to put together the package to wrap up the captain for 14 years. Allen discusses the national implications of the signing and covers several other interesting topics.
Give it a listen.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Cogen details the process that the Predators went through to put together the package to wrap up the captain for 14 years. Allen discusses the national implications of the signing and covers several other interesting topics.
Give it a listen.
Listen to internet radio with SmashvilleOnTheGlass on Blog Talk Radio
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Mike Fisher and Carrie Underwood do Disney
It's rare that we see what Predators players are up to in the offseason. I ran across a little video from RumorFix with a report of Mike Fiisher and Carrie Underwood at Disney World on Thursday. Fun stuff!
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Back to business as usual in Smashville, Predators geared up for another run at the Cup
With Shea Weber wrapped up as team captain for the next fourteen years, and Pekka Rinne behind him for half that time, the Nashville Predators appear set for another season where they realistically have a shot at the Stanley Cup.
All the gnashing of teeth that has been ongoing since the Preds beat the Red Wings in five games in April appears to have abruptly come to an end on Tuesday when the Predators matched the Philadelphia Flyers 14-year, $110 million offer to retain Captain Weber.
Tom Cigarran, leader of the Preds ownership group, was a happy man at Wednesday's press conference in spite of busting open the collective piggybank to be able to shell out the big bucks to keep Weber wearing the gold sweater.
"It’s a good day to be a Predators fan, and even better days lay ahead of us," Cigarran exclaimed.
He then detailed the collective parts that led to the decision to sign Weber. "At the Predators, we have a three-way working relationship among Ownership, Hockey Operations and Business Operations.
Owners provide the basic funding for the team and make sure we have the very best leadership throughout our organization. Hockey Operations job is to make sure that we have an elite, winning franchise on the ice year after year. Business Operations’ job is to make sure we operate as an elite franchise off the ice and that our current fans have reasons to continue their active support of the Predators and that we create new fans every day.
These three parts of our organization work very hard, very effectively, and seamlessly to get us to the decision to make Shea Weber our team captain and leader for the next 14 years."
Predators plan to celebrate Weber signing on the Bridgestone Arena plaza today
Today (Wednesday) at 12:30, the Nashville Predators plan to open up the Bridgestone Arena plaza for one of the biggest celebrations in team history as Tom Cigarran, David Poile and Jeff Cogen will address the crowd at 1 p.m. in their first public appearance since Shea Weber became a Predator for the next 14 years.
There will also be plenty of free food and cheap beverages to make the lunch time occasion complete. Here is the list of offerings:
· Media Conference featuring remarks from Tom Cigarran, David Poile and Jeff Cogen starting at 1pm
· Live Music
· $2 Beers/$1 soda & water
· FREE Hot dogs, Hamburgers and Hunt Brothers Pizza
· Proshop will be open
For those locked in an office or otherwise unable to attend, streaming video will be avaliable here.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Weber to remain a Predator for 14 years
The six day period of silence in Smashville in reacting to the Philadephia Flyers 14-year, $110 million offer sheet was finaly broken Tuesday afternoon with the formal announcement from Preds GM David Poile that Nashville would match the terms of the Flyers offer.
This should allow Predators' captain Shea Weber to play out the rest of his career in Music City and allow the Preds to move forward on other potential deals to finalize this year's team.
Make the jump for the official release from the Predators as well as an email letter to fans fro Preds COO Sean Henry...
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Predators' summer of discontent worsens with Flyers' offer sheet
The Nashville Predators summer of discontent worsened with a massive "bunker-buster" bomb blast from the Philadelphia Flyers in the early morning hours on Thursday when the news leaked that Preds' captain, Shea Weber, had signed a $110 million, 14-year offer sheet with the bad boy team in the Eastern Conference.
The Predators have little choice but to match the offer before next Wednesday's deadline. It appears that the Flyers tired of negotiating with Preds GM David Poile on a possible trade and just upped the ante by throwing out the offer that defined the market value for the best all-round young defenseman in the game.
It was common belief that Weber would either be re-signed to a long term deal similar to the one Ryan Suter signed or be traded to another team for a king's ransom. Poile's mantra all summer has been that he would match any team's offer sheet for Weber which was supposed to ward off such attempts.
Flyers GM Paul Holmgren put Poile to the ultimate test, front-loading the deal with $68 million in signing bonuses and offering to shell out $80 million in the first six years of the contract. I'm sure the Preds were prepared to pay a similar total amount but not so much so soon.
The Predators have little choice but to match the offer before next Wednesday's deadline. It appears that the Flyers tired of negotiating with Preds GM David Poile on a possible trade and just upped the ante by throwing out the offer that defined the market value for the best all-round young defenseman in the game.
It was common belief that Weber would either be re-signed to a long term deal similar to the one Ryan Suter signed or be traded to another team for a king's ransom. Poile's mantra all summer has been that he would match any team's offer sheet for Weber which was supposed to ward off such attempts.
Flyers GM Paul Holmgren put Poile to the ultimate test, front-loading the deal with $68 million in signing bonuses and offering to shell out $80 million in the first six years of the contract. I'm sure the Preds were prepared to pay a similar total amount but not so much so soon.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Elliotte Friedman guests on SmashvilleOnTheGlass Radio (podcast)
Ryan and Buddy catch up with the CBC's Elliotte Friedman and cover a wide range of topics including Ryan Suter, Shea Weber, and the upcoming CBA negotiations. Section 303's Jeremy Gover also joins in for a round-table discusssion on the Predators future.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Listen to internet radio with SmashvilleOnTheGlass on Blog Talk Radio
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Shea Weber skips arbitration option, Sergei Kostitsyn chooses to arbitrate
The NHLPA released the list of 16 NHL player that opted for player elected arbitration under the current rules of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The Predators' Shea Weber chose not to participate this year after getting a bitter taste in his mouth at last year's team elected hearing where he was awarded a one-year contract for $7.5 million. The Predators' main focus will be to sign Weber to a long term deal that could make him the highest paid NHL defenseman.
Teammate, Sergei Kostitsyn decided to take a shot at the arbitration process to attempt to improve on the $2.5 million that he made this past season. The flip side of the matter is that the Preds could chose to walk away from an award if they do not like the amount. Additionally, the team and player could agree to a contract before the hearing.
Make the jump for the complete list released by the NHLPA...
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Poile "Disappointed and surprised" in Suter leaving
David Poile spoke to the national media via conference call just minutes after finding out that the the Nashville Predators "were not going to be the team of choice" in the Ryan Suter contract negotiations.
Poile indicated that he was "disappointed and surprised" in Suter's choice of signing with the Minnesota Wild. He indicated that he had had "30 to 40 discussions with Ryan and his agent as to signing a long term deal and Ryan's importance the club."
Suter's primary indication was that the criteria that he was looking for was being a part of a "winning team." Poile pointed out that "no team in the league did more at the trading deadline" than the Predators.
Suter's camp indicated to Poile that "it was not about money," but for "family reasons." Poile said that was "not what we talked about all season long."
Going forward, Poile indicated that the focus would turn to Shea Weber and trying to sign him to a long term deal. "We want him (Weber) to be in Nashville for years to come."
Poile admitted that re-signing Weber will not be an easy task. "If Ryan had re-signed it would have been easier for Shea to commit." Poile's main sales pitch to Weber will be that "he is the captain of the team and they they want to build the team around him."
In addition to attempting to re-sign Weber, Poile will also be looking for a replacement for Suter via "a trade or free-agency." He indicated that he would be looking for "the right player with the right fit."
Even with the departure of Suter, the Predators have a bright future on the blue line with Weber, Kevin Klein, Hal Gill, Ryan Ellis, Roman Josi, and a host of prospects waiting in the wings for a shot at the NHL.
Thanks to Petw Weber for the audio of David Poile's conference call.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Suter signs with Minnesota, attention shifts to Weber
According to Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Tribune, ex-Predator Ryan Suter has signed a 13 year contract that should make him a Wild for the remainder of his career.
No terms were immediately available but it was reported on Tuesday that Detroit had offered $90 million in a 13 year deal. The Wild also signed ex-Devil Zach Parise in what could be a similar 13 year offer that would unite the two Team USA stars and friends.
In Smashville, all eyes now turn to Shea Weber to see what he will do. Preds GM David Poile has repeatedly said that once Suter was resolved he would make an offer to Shea Weber who is a restricted free agent now and could become unrestricted at the end of next season if the CBA age rules do not change under a new agreement.
Also, look for Poile to possible pursue free agent Matt Carle or possibly trade for a D-man like Paul Martin who is with the Penguins.
So stay tuned as the hockey news never stops in Music City in spite of the torrid 100 degree heat.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Predators sign four more as Suter remains on the open market
In the last 24 hours, the Nashville Predators continued to piece together the puzzle that will be the final product that will hit the ice in October.
Since Hal Gil signed last week, the Predators have added Paul Gaustad, Brian McGrattan, Chris Mason, and minor leaguer, Kevin Henderson.
The one piece that remains an unknown is that of Ryan Suter. David Poile met with the media late Sunday and sounded like he was becoming increasingly impatient with Suter's indecision. A video of the discussion can be found here.
The re-signing of Gaustad is significant as it brings back the game's best face-off specialist and adds stability to the penalty kill team that was the leagues best last season.
The retutn of Chris Mason will make every Predator fan smile. Chris played parts of six seasons in Nashville and was a favorite among fans, coaches and teammates and will be the perfect complement to Prkka Rinne in goal. He had his best years under goalie coach Mitch Korn and he should returtn to that form again.
McGrattan's re-signing insures that the smash will remain in Smashville. His play down the stretch last year was limited due to injury and the competitiveness of the playoff race. The big guy is the best enforcer that the Preds have ever had and fans will be thrilled to see him in action once again.
Make the jump for all of the releases from the Predators on the signings...
Since Hal Gil signed last week, the Predators have added Paul Gaustad, Brian McGrattan, Chris Mason, and minor leaguer, Kevin Henderson.
The one piece that remains an unknown is that of Ryan Suter. David Poile met with the media late Sunday and sounded like he was becoming increasingly impatient with Suter's indecision. A video of the discussion can be found here.
The re-signing of Gaustad is significant as it brings back the game's best face-off specialist and adds stability to the penalty kill team that was the leagues best last season.
The retutn of Chris Mason will make every Predator fan smile. Chris played parts of six seasons in Nashville and was a favorite among fans, coaches and teammates and will be the perfect complement to Prkka Rinne in goal. He had his best years under goalie coach Mitch Korn and he should returtn to that form again.
McGrattan's re-signing insures that the smash will remain in Smashville. His play down the stretch last year was limited due to injury and the competitiveness of the playoff race. The big guy is the best enforcer that the Preds have ever had and fans will be thrilled to see him in action once again.
Make the jump for all of the releases from the Predators on the signings...
Friday, June 29, 2012
What does the Hal Gill signing really mean for Smashville?
The Nashville Predators announced a key signing on Thursday ahead of the July 1 fiasco that will go a long way toward adding stability to the teams defensive corps for next two years.
Signing Hal Gill to a two-deal deal at $2 million a year is just what the doctor ordered to stabilize a young group of blue-liners that will soon be transitioning from the known quantity of Shea Weber and Ryan Suter to whatever combination it becomes in the next few days, weeks, or years.
I am assuming that Ryan Suter will be grazing on greener ice in Pittsburgh, Detroit, Minnesota or one of 26 other NHL teams that are willing to offer stupid money for a D-Man with a fair market value of seven million dollars in a reasonable economy that he has not accepted from David Poile.
I, personally, am also wondering what Shea Weber is thinking when he lost the Norris Trophy to a clearly inferior candidate in Erik Karlsson that Adrian Dater claimed caused the biggest gasp in the room with the media when it was announced (truth be known, Amanda DiPaolo made a loud noise and this writer leaked an expletive, sitting beside Dater).
Was Karlsson's theft of a Norris enough to drive Weber away from the friendly confines of Smashville's Bridgestone Arena in favor of a more traditional market when he becomes a free agent next year or does it lead him to a double-down (as in the Saloon) situation to prove the pundits wrong and gut it out in Music City. That is a serious question that only he can answer.
The day before the award was handed out, Weber was clearly Mr. Smashville and said all the right things. Then, after the awards show he was the only Preds nominee not to face the media, so we don't know his thoughts, but I would assume (I'll make asses of you me and everyone else) that he was not pleased with the result and it could eventually lead to a relocation.
Therefore, at this point, Hal Gill is the only D-man other than Ryan Ellis signed on in to the 2013-14 season and is ready and committed to stand in front of Pekka Rinne in the Predators pursuit of the 2014 Stanley Cup and that should make him a hero among the Predator faithful.
Gill is a winner, and even at his age of 37, he is a player that Preds fans can rally around to lead the team forward. He is a leader on the ice, in the clubhouse, and he never fails to stand up for the team in the post game scrum.
When no one else is willing to lay the cards on the table, Hal Gill steps up and is all in. Congrats to the Predators, The fans, and Hal Gill on the new contract. Make the jump for the details...
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Predators announce road-heavy preseason schedule
The Nashville Predators released their preseason schedule for the upcoming 2012-13 campaign and it features only a pair of home games at Bridgestone Arena while they will play five games on the road.
The Preds will play the St.Louis Blues on Tuesday, September 25 and the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, September 29 in Smashville, with both games starting at 7 p.m.
Rookie camp will open on Friday, September 14, while veterans will report a week later on the 21st.
Make the jump for the full schedule and all the details from the Predators...
PREDATORS TO KICK-OFF SEVEN-GAME 2012 PRESEASON SCHEDULE WITH A DOUBLEHEADER ON SEPT. 24
-Slate includes home games against Washington and Carolina-
Nashville, Tenn. (June 27, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the Predators will open their seven-game 2012 preseason schedule with a doubleheader at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla., for the second consecutive season on Monday, Sept. 24.
Nashville’s preseason schedule includes a pair of home games: Tuesday, Sept. 25 against the Central Division rival St. Louis Blues and Saturday, Sept. 29 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Both games at Bridgestone Arena will start at 7 p.m. CT.
In addition to their doubleheader against the Florida Panthers, the Predators will travel to Raleigh to take on the Hurricanes for the seventh consecutive preseason (Sept. 28) and play their first preseason tilt at the Scottrade Center since 2003 on Oct. 2. Nashville will round out the seven-game slate on Oct. 5 at the Verizon Center in Washington.
The 2012-13 Nashville Predators rookie camp is scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 14, with veterans reporting on Friday, Sept. 21 for testing and physicals. The Predators’ first day on the ice will be Saturday, Sept. 22 at the Centennial Sportsplex.
Season tickets for the 2012-13 Nashville Predators season in Smashville are on sale now and start at just $24 per game. Great interest-free payment plans are currently available for Full Season and Half Season packages. You can also create your own ticket plan with the Dunkin’ Donuts Flex 12 Plan by selecting 12 games that fit your personal schedule. To order tickets to the Nashville Predators, visit nashvillepredators.com/seasonticket or contact a ticket representative at 615-770-7800. Information on ticket availability for individual games will be announced later this summer.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS 2012 PRESEASON SCHEDULE
Day Date Opponent Site Time (CT)
Monday Sept. 24 Florida Panthers BankAtlantic Center 1:30 p.m.
Monday Sept. 24 Florida Panthers BankAtlantic Center 6 p.m.
Tuesday Sept. 25 St. Louis Blues Bridgestone Arena 7 p.m.
Friday Sept. 28 Carolina Hurricanes RBC Center 6 p.m.
Saturday Sept. 29 Carolina Hurricanes Bridgestone Arena 7 p.m.
Tuesday Oct. 2 St. Louis Blues Scottrade Center 7 p.m.
Friday Oct. 5 Washington Capitals Verizon Center 6 p.m.
More Later....
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
The Preds will play the St.Louis Blues on Tuesday, September 25 and the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, September 29 in Smashville, with both games starting at 7 p.m.
Rookie camp will open on Friday, September 14, while veterans will report a week later on the 21st.
Make the jump for the full schedule and all the details from the Predators...
PREDATORS TO KICK-OFF SEVEN-GAME 2012 PRESEASON SCHEDULE WITH A DOUBLEHEADER ON SEPT. 24
-Slate includes home games against Washington and Carolina-
Nashville, Tenn. (June 27, 2012) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the Predators will open their seven-game 2012 preseason schedule with a doubleheader at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla., for the second consecutive season on Monday, Sept. 24.
Nashville’s preseason schedule includes a pair of home games: Tuesday, Sept. 25 against the Central Division rival St. Louis Blues and Saturday, Sept. 29 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Both games at Bridgestone Arena will start at 7 p.m. CT.
In addition to their doubleheader against the Florida Panthers, the Predators will travel to Raleigh to take on the Hurricanes for the seventh consecutive preseason (Sept. 28) and play their first preseason tilt at the Scottrade Center since 2003 on Oct. 2. Nashville will round out the seven-game slate on Oct. 5 at the Verizon Center in Washington.
The 2012-13 Nashville Predators rookie camp is scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 14, with veterans reporting on Friday, Sept. 21 for testing and physicals. The Predators’ first day on the ice will be Saturday, Sept. 22 at the Centennial Sportsplex.
Season tickets for the 2012-13 Nashville Predators season in Smashville are on sale now and start at just $24 per game. Great interest-free payment plans are currently available for Full Season and Half Season packages. You can also create your own ticket plan with the Dunkin’ Donuts Flex 12 Plan by selecting 12 games that fit your personal schedule. To order tickets to the Nashville Predators, visit nashvillepredators.com/seasonticket or contact a ticket representative at 615-770-7800. Information on ticket availability for individual games will be announced later this summer.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS 2012 PRESEASON SCHEDULE
Day Date Opponent Site Time (CT)
Monday Sept. 24 Florida Panthers BankAtlantic Center 1:30 p.m.
Monday Sept. 24 Florida Panthers BankAtlantic Center 6 p.m.
Tuesday Sept. 25 St. Louis Blues Bridgestone Arena 7 p.m.
Friday Sept. 28 Carolina Hurricanes RBC Center 6 p.m.
Saturday Sept. 29 Carolina Hurricanes Bridgestone Arena 7 p.m.
Tuesday Oct. 2 St. Louis Blues Scottrade Center 7 p.m.
Friday Oct. 5 Washington Capitals Verizon Center 6 p.m.
More Later....
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
It is your time to shine if you can come up with the Nashville Predators new catch phrase
Since 1998, the Nashville Predators have tad a "tag line" or marketing slogan each year and most have been pretty good. The term "Smashville" has been the most successful and is well known throughout the hockey world.
One of my favorites from the early years was "Fang Fever". The worst ever had to be the "My Town" theme based on the horrible ballad from the country act Montgomery-Gentry which allegedly brings down the house at their concerts.
It did nothing but drive the Preds out of the 2006 playoffs and kill any enthusiasm that the crowd could bring forth every time it was played. As far as towns are concerned, Smashville is more "Run This Town" than "My Town" eight days a week.
Anyway, we digress. Since Nashville has some of the brightest and most creative folks on the loose so the Predators are wanting each of you to come up with the coming year's slogan. Therefore they have released the #MySmashville contest that will give huge perks, including season tickets, to the person who can produce the best tag line.
Make the jump for all the rules, regulations and details from the Predators....
One of my favorites from the early years was "Fang Fever". The worst ever had to be the "My Town" theme based on the horrible ballad from the country act Montgomery-Gentry which allegedly brings down the house at their concerts.
It did nothing but drive the Preds out of the 2006 playoffs and kill any enthusiasm that the crowd could bring forth every time it was played. As far as towns are concerned, Smashville is more "Run This Town" than "My Town" eight days a week.
Anyway, we digress. Since Nashville has some of the brightest and most creative folks on the loose so the Predators are wanting each of you to come up with the coming year's slogan. Therefore they have released the #MySmashville contest that will give huge perks, including season tickets, to the person who can produce the best tag line.
Make the jump for all the rules, regulations and details from the Predators....
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Predators Development Camp starts today and runs through Sunday
The Nashville Predators released the full details of this year's edition of their annual Summer Development Camp that will feature the team's top prospects as well as all nine new Preds that were drafted at last weekends NHL Entry Draft in Pittsburgh.
On ice sessions will be open to the public Today, Thursday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Centennial Sportsplex. The final day with the battle for the coveted camp trophy will be on Sunday from 2 - 4 p.m.
Here is a full printable schedule as well as a printable roster of participants. Make the jump for all the other details of the camp.
On ice sessions will be open to the public Today, Thursday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at Centennial Sportsplex. The final day with the battle for the coveted camp trophy will be on Sunday from 2 - 4 p.m.
Here is a full printable schedule as well as a printable roster of participants. Make the jump for all the other details of the camp.
Monday, June 25, 2012
David Poile speaks after the 2012 NHL Awards Show
The video starts with a poll of reporters on what they thought of Nickelback and then moves on to more pertinent matters at hand with the Predators representation at the 2012 NHL Awards show.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOntheGlass
Predators make qualifying offers on some, send others to free agency
The Nashville Predators released the list of pending restricted free agents that they made qualifying offers to before Sunday's July first free agency period begins.
Players who earned less than $660,000 in the previous season must be offered 110 percent of last season's salary. Players making up to $1 million must be offered 105 percent. Players making over $1 million must be offered 100 percent of their salary.
The Preds qualified the following five players who are not arbitration eligible (2011-12 NHL base salary in parenthesis - from CapGeek.com).
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Predators have high hopes for nine new draft picks
After trading away their own first and second round draft picks at the trade deadline, the Nashville Predators have to be pleased with the nine players that they picked up at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft on Saturday at the CONSOL Energey Center in Pittsburgh on Saturday.
After sitting on the sidelines in round one on Friday night, the Preds made the most of their nine picks on day two of the draft picking up six forwards, two defenseman and a goalie.
Make the jump for all the details from the Predators...
After sitting on the sidelines in round one on Friday night, the Preds made the most of their nine picks on day two of the draft picking up six forwards, two defenseman and a goalie.
Make the jump for all the details from the Predators...
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Pekka Rinne finishes third in Vezina voting as Henrik Lundqvist wins
In spite of leading the league in wins, Pekka Rinne finished third in this year's Vezina Trophy balloting as Henrik Lundqvist was the clear cut winner. Jonathan Quick finished second.
Make the jump for the full announcement from NHL Media Services....
Make the jump for the full announcement from NHL Media Services....
Mike Fisher wins NHL Foundation Award, Room at the Inn gets $25,000
With the Predators riding an zero for three losing streak at the NHL Awards, Mike Fisher came through in the clutch and was awarded the NHL Foundation Award to bring hardware to Smashville.
The big winner was Nashville's Room at the Inn shelter who will receive a $25,000 grant from the NHL to continue their work which Fisher supports.
Make the jump for the full release from the NHL media services...
The big winner was Nashville's Room at the Inn shelter who will receive a $25,000 grant from the NHL to continue their work which Fisher supports.
Make the jump for the full release from the NHL media services...
David Poile finishes third in GM of the Year voting as Doug Armstrong wins
After having been nominated all three seasons that the GM of the Year award has been given, David Poile finished third in the voting as St Louis' Doug Armstrong took home the award. Poile actually received the second highest total of first place votes but did not garner as many second and third pace votes.
Make the jump for the full release from NHLMedia Services...
Make the jump for the full release from NHLMedia Services...
Claude Giroux defeats Pekka Rinne in NHL13 cover voting
For the first time ever, EA Sports turned the voting over to the fans for who would grace the cover of the NHL13 game that will be released in September.
With finalists, Pekka Rinne and Claude Giroux on the stage at the Wynn Encore Theater in Las Vegas, Giroux was unveiled as the winner. No vote totals were released but it was previously announced that less than a few thousand votes separated the finalist in the final hours.
Make the jump for the release from EA Sports...
With finalists, Pekka Rinne and Claude Giroux on the stage at the Wynn Encore Theater in Las Vegas, Giroux was unveiled as the winner. No vote totals were released but it was previously announced that less than a few thousand votes separated the finalist in the final hours.
Make the jump for the release from EA Sports...
Weber loses Norris in close vote for second year in a row
After being narrowly edged out for the Norris Trophy by hockey legend Nicklas Lidstrom last year, Shea Weber was narrowly beaten by Ottawa Senators youngster Erik Karlsson.
Only twelve points separated the two in another year of close voting. Zdeno Chara was a distant third, 107 points behind Weber. Ryan Suter was eighth in the voting and ex-Pred Dan Hamhuis rounded out the top ten.
Make the jump for the full story from NHL Media Services...
Only twelve points separated the two in another year of close voting. Zdeno Chara was a distant third, 107 points behind Weber. Ryan Suter was eighth in the voting and ex-Pred Dan Hamhuis rounded out the top ten.
Make the jump for the full story from NHL Media Services...
Shea Weber speaks before the 2012 NHL Awards Show (video)
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
David Poile speaks before the 2012 NHL Awards Show (video)
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Pekka Rinne speaks before the 2012 NHL Awards Show (video)
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Mike Fisher speaks before the 2012 NHL Awards Show (video)
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Predators to host NHL Awards Show Viewing Party Tonight
In celebration of the Predators' four nominees at the NHL Awards Show at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, the Nashville Predators will host a viewing party at the Patron Platinum Club at Bridgestone Arena tonight starting at 4:30 p.m.
Make the jump for all the details...
Monday, June 18, 2012
POTG Projects the 2012 NHL Awards Winners
As we make way to Las Vegas for the NHL Awards Show, we have plenty of time to opine who might be grabbing the hardware on Wednesday night at the Wynn Encore Theater. I will run through the nominees for the contested awards and pick the folks I would like to see win as well as attempting to project who will actually win.
I will mark my personal choices with an asterisk (*) and mark my projected winners with a (W).
Hart Trophy
This year's nominees all had great seasons but using the definition of "the player most valuable to his team" would eliminate Steven Stamkos as the Lightning went nowhere with him this season. While Henrik Lundqvist was the Rangers' savior for the first four months of the season, he faded toward the end. Evgeni Malkin was the saving grace for the Penguins who were without Sidney Crosby for most of the year. I see no way that Malkin doesn't win the Hart
Henrik Lundqvist
Evgeni Malkin * W
Steven Stamkos
Vezina Trophy
The definition of the award is "the goaltender adjudged to be the best at at this position" as judged by the NHL GMs. If the voting had occurred at the end of February, Henrik Lundqvist would have been the hands down winner. As it was when the voting was actually done, it was probably a wide open race and may be the closest balloting of all the awards. I would have to go with the homer pick of Pekka Rinne since the Preds wouldn't have made the playoffs without him but I think that Lundquist may have had the votes to hang on for the win.
Henrik Lundqvist W
Pekka Rinne *
Jonathan Quick
Norris Trophy
Many folks have stated that Erik Karlsson should be the winner based on the season that he had with an over-achieving Ottawa Senators team. I think Karlsson will finish a close second to the Predators' Shea Weber who will finally claim the Norris this year as a defenseman who can dominate the game at both ends of the ice.
Zdeno Chara
Erik Karlsson
Shea Weber * W
Calder Trophy
Statistically, all three nominees were in a dead heat as far as points were concerned and each appears to have the ability to improve in future seasons. Adam Henrique had his coming out party with the Devils during the playoffs but that is not a consideration for the Calder. Of the three, Gabriel Landeskog had the biggest impact on his team and will probably walk away with the trophy.
Adam Henrique
Gabriel Landeskog * W
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy
With Pavel Datsyuk not on the ballot this year, the voting will be a wide open affair. Picking a clear cut winner is impossible but I think Matt Moulson may be the winner. If I were voting, I would go with Brian Campbell since it appears no other Florida Panther will pick up any prizes in Vegas and they should receive something for the season they just completed.
Brian Campbell *
Jordan Eberle
Matt Moulson W
Selke Trophy
David Backes and Patrice Bergeron both had excellent seasons but as long as Pavel Datsyuk is on the ballot, he will be the big winner and I agree and would be voting for him.
David Backes
Patrice Bergeron
Pavel Datsyuk * W
Jack Adams Award
I was really surprised that Barry Trotz and Kevin Dineen did not make the final three. If I had voted, I would have voted for Dineen for taking the Panthers to the playoffs with a bunch of players that had not played together previously. Paul Maclean will receive plenty of support from the Canadian broadcasters but Ken Hitchcock will have wide ranging support and bring home the bacon. John Tortorella will finish third.
Ken Hitchcock W
Paul Maclean
John Tortorella
Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy
The Masterton is a real crap shoot this year and any of the three nominations could win. I think that Max Pacioretty will rise to the top of the ballot and haul off the trophy.
Daniel Alfredsson
Joffrey Lupul
Max Pacioretty * W
Ted Lindsay
The Ted Lindsay Award differs from the Hart in that it is voted on by the players themselves and goes to the "most outstanding player." I would have to vote for Evgeni Malkin again but I think the players may reward Steven Stamkos for his 60 goals by giving him the award.
Henrik Lundqvist
Evgeni Malkin
Steven Stamkos
Messier Leadership Award
The Messier Leadership Award is an oddity among the trophies as it is voted on by Mark Messier himself. I have no idea who Messier will cast his vote for but in my opinion, the two best captains in the league are Dustin Brown and Shane Doan so I would split my vote between the two. With the Kings winning the Stanley Cup, that might tip Mark's choice toward Brown, so I will project him as the winner.
Dustin Brown * W
Ryan Callahan
Shane Doan *
NHL Foundation Award
There is no way to pick this award as all have made major charitable contributions in their communities. In my book they are all winners but I have to take Mike Fisher as the hometown pick.
Mike Fisher * W
John-Michael Liles W
Matt Moulson W
GM of the Year
From a Smashville perspective, David Poile is the GM of the Year every year and this season was no different. Since the vote was taken before the playoffs, he will finally be named the winner for bringing in Hal Gill, Paul Gaustad, Alex Radulov, and for having all the homegrown talent continuing to emerge into the NHL and helping lead the Preds into the playoffs.
Doug Armstrong
David Poile * W
Dale Tallon
NHL 13 Cover Vote
Finally, the fans of Smashville will really shine when it is announced that Pekka Rinne will grace the cover of NHL 13 when it is released in September.
Claude Giroux
Pekka Rinne * W
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
I will mark my personal choices with an asterisk (*) and mark my projected winners with a (W).
Hart Trophy
This year's nominees all had great seasons but using the definition of "the player most valuable to his team" would eliminate Steven Stamkos as the Lightning went nowhere with him this season. While Henrik Lundqvist was the Rangers' savior for the first four months of the season, he faded toward the end. Evgeni Malkin was the saving grace for the Penguins who were without Sidney Crosby for most of the year. I see no way that Malkin doesn't win the Hart
Henrik Lundqvist
Evgeni Malkin * W
Steven Stamkos
Vezina Trophy
The definition of the award is "the goaltender adjudged to be the best at at this position" as judged by the NHL GMs. If the voting had occurred at the end of February, Henrik Lundqvist would have been the hands down winner. As it was when the voting was actually done, it was probably a wide open race and may be the closest balloting of all the awards. I would have to go with the homer pick of Pekka Rinne since the Preds wouldn't have made the playoffs without him but I think that Lundquist may have had the votes to hang on for the win.
Henrik Lundqvist W
Pekka Rinne *
Jonathan Quick
Norris Trophy
Many folks have stated that Erik Karlsson should be the winner based on the season that he had with an over-achieving Ottawa Senators team. I think Karlsson will finish a close second to the Predators' Shea Weber who will finally claim the Norris this year as a defenseman who can dominate the game at both ends of the ice.
Zdeno Chara
Erik Karlsson
Shea Weber * W
Calder Trophy
Statistically, all three nominees were in a dead heat as far as points were concerned and each appears to have the ability to improve in future seasons. Adam Henrique had his coming out party with the Devils during the playoffs but that is not a consideration for the Calder. Of the three, Gabriel Landeskog had the biggest impact on his team and will probably walk away with the trophy.
Adam Henrique
Gabriel Landeskog * W
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy
With Pavel Datsyuk not on the ballot this year, the voting will be a wide open affair. Picking a clear cut winner is impossible but I think Matt Moulson may be the winner. If I were voting, I would go with Brian Campbell since it appears no other Florida Panther will pick up any prizes in Vegas and they should receive something for the season they just completed.
Brian Campbell *
Jordan Eberle
Matt Moulson W
Selke Trophy
David Backes and Patrice Bergeron both had excellent seasons but as long as Pavel Datsyuk is on the ballot, he will be the big winner and I agree and would be voting for him.
David Backes
Patrice Bergeron
Pavel Datsyuk * W
Jack Adams Award
I was really surprised that Barry Trotz and Kevin Dineen did not make the final three. If I had voted, I would have voted for Dineen for taking the Panthers to the playoffs with a bunch of players that had not played together previously. Paul Maclean will receive plenty of support from the Canadian broadcasters but Ken Hitchcock will have wide ranging support and bring home the bacon. John Tortorella will finish third.
Ken Hitchcock W
Paul Maclean
John Tortorella
Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy
The Masterton is a real crap shoot this year and any of the three nominations could win. I think that Max Pacioretty will rise to the top of the ballot and haul off the trophy.
Daniel Alfredsson
Joffrey Lupul
Max Pacioretty * W
Ted Lindsay
The Ted Lindsay Award differs from the Hart in that it is voted on by the players themselves and goes to the "most outstanding player." I would have to vote for Evgeni Malkin again but I think the players may reward Steven Stamkos for his 60 goals by giving him the award.
Henrik Lundqvist
Evgeni Malkin
Steven Stamkos
Messier Leadership Award
The Messier Leadership Award is an oddity among the trophies as it is voted on by Mark Messier himself. I have no idea who Messier will cast his vote for but in my opinion, the two best captains in the league are Dustin Brown and Shane Doan so I would split my vote between the two. With the Kings winning the Stanley Cup, that might tip Mark's choice toward Brown, so I will project him as the winner.
Dustin Brown * W
Ryan Callahan
Shane Doan *
NHL Foundation Award
There is no way to pick this award as all have made major charitable contributions in their communities. In my book they are all winners but I have to take Mike Fisher as the hometown pick.
Mike Fisher * W
John-Michael Liles W
Matt Moulson W
GM of the Year
From a Smashville perspective, David Poile is the GM of the Year every year and this season was no different. Since the vote was taken before the playoffs, he will finally be named the winner for bringing in Hal Gill, Paul Gaustad, Alex Radulov, and for having all the homegrown talent continuing to emerge into the NHL and helping lead the Preds into the playoffs.
Doug Armstrong
David Poile * W
Dale Tallon
NHL 13 Cover Vote
Finally, the fans of Smashville will really shine when it is announced that Pekka Rinne will grace the cover of NHL 13 when it is released in September.
Claude Giroux
Pekka Rinne * W
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Hellberg signed, Radulov bolts for KHL (again)
As we prepare to travel to Las Vegas to cover the NHL Awards, we have a pair of Predators items to mention.
Early today, Dmitry Chesnokov reported that Alexander Radulov, the ex-prodigal Predator, will be returning to the KHL to play for CSKA, the Red Army Team. He has one year remaining on his KHL contract but CSKA is hoping to sign him to a two or three year extension.
The threat of a lockout in the NHL in the fall weighed heavily in Radulov's decision according to the report.
The other news was the announcement by the Predators that they had signed goalie prospect Magnus Hellberg to an entry level contract.
Hellberg was the Preds highest pick in last summer's NHL Entry Draft in Minneapolis, when they took him in the second round with the draft's 38th pick. The 6-5, 185 pound Swede has yet to play in North America on the smaller rink but is expected to play in Milwaukee this season.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
Early today, Dmitry Chesnokov reported that Alexander Radulov, the ex-prodigal Predator, will be returning to the KHL to play for CSKA, the Red Army Team. He has one year remaining on his KHL contract but CSKA is hoping to sign him to a two or three year extension.
The threat of a lockout in the NHL in the fall weighed heavily in Radulov's decision according to the report.
The other news was the announcement by the Predators that they had signed goalie prospect Magnus Hellberg to an entry level contract.
Hellberg was the Preds highest pick in last summer's NHL Entry Draft in Minneapolis, when they took him in the second round with the draft's 38th pick. The 6-5, 185 pound Swede has yet to play in North America on the smaller rink but is expected to play in Milwaukee this season.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
Friday, June 15, 2012
Lindback gets his chance to start in Tampa
Back-up Predators goalie for the last two year, Anders Lindback, will have his chance to come out from under the shadow of Vezina nominee, Pekka Rinne next season as he was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning as part of a multi-player deal on Friday.
The Predators traded Lindback, Kyle Wilson and a seventh round pick to the Bolts in exchange for two second round picks in this years NHL Entry Draft and a third rounder at next year's draft. The Preds also took on the Lightning's cast off goalie, Sebastien Caron who will become an UFA on July 1st and is not a part of Nashville's plans.
The Predators were without a first or second round pick in next week's draft and this move partially filled that void and will help the team restock the cupboard with more young talent.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
The Predators traded Lindback, Kyle Wilson and a seventh round pick to the Bolts in exchange for two second round picks in this years NHL Entry Draft and a third rounder at next year's draft. The Preds also took on the Lightning's cast off goalie, Sebastien Caron who will become an UFA on July 1st and is not a part of Nashville's plans.
The Predators were without a first or second round pick in next week's draft and this move partially filled that void and will help the team restock the cupboard with more young talent.
Make the jump for the full release from the Predators...
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
NHL Awards adds more star power to this year's show
As we prepare to gear up for our trip to Las Vegas and the NHL Awards next week, I am thrilled with the star-studded lineup of celebrity presenters for this years event.
I am especially excited to see Ray Liotta (Goodfellas, Field of Dreams, Blow, Hannibal, and others) added to the list of presenters. I am also interested in asking Vince Vaughn about one of the great hockey scenes of all time in the movie "Swingers."
The Nashville Predators will be well represented with their own set of stars with Pekka Rinne (Vezina, NHL13 Cover Vote), Shea Weber (Norris), Mike Fisher (NHL Foundation Award) and David Poile (GM of the Year) as finalists in their respective categories.
Make the jump for the full release from the NHL with the complete list of presenters...
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
After long wait for return, Predators ready to say goodbye to Alexander Radulov
After patiently waiting for almost four seasons for wayward Predator Alexander Radulov to make a return to Music City, the Preds are now ready to send him on his way to another NHL team or the KHL.
According to Josh Cooper of the Tennessean, David Poile made it clear today that Radulov did not fit into the Predators future plans. He indicated that a trade or a release to a KHL team were both possibilities.
Radulov played nine regular season games with the Preds beginning in late March and picked up thee goals and four assists. In the playoffs, Radulov had a goal and five assists in seven games.
A key factor in Radulov's exit was the disruption caused when he and Andrei Kostitsyn stayed out past curfew the evening before game two of Nashville's second round series with Phoenix and the pair were subsequently suspended.
It will be interesting to see what type of deal that Poile can swing in disposing of Radulov's rights.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
According to Josh Cooper of the Tennessean, David Poile made it clear today that Radulov did not fit into the Predators future plans. He indicated that a trade or a release to a KHL team were both possibilities.
Radulov played nine regular season games with the Preds beginning in late March and picked up thee goals and four assists. In the playoffs, Radulov had a goal and five assists in seven games.
A key factor in Radulov's exit was the disruption caused when he and Andrei Kostitsyn stayed out past curfew the evening before game two of Nashville's second round series with Phoenix and the pair were subsequently suspended.
It will be interesting to see what type of deal that Poile can swing in disposing of Radulov's rights.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Monday, June 4, 2012
Today is the last day to vote for Pekka in the NHL 13 cover vote
Even if your fingers have grown numb from voting for Pekka Rinne of the Nashville Predators in his race against Claude Giroux of the Philadelphia Flyers in the final vote for who gets to be on the cover of EA Sports NHL 13, today is the day when the final sacrifice is needed.
Rinne has received endorsements from Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Sheen and others in his quest to win the popularity contest.
The Preds have set up a special voting place today at Dunkin’ Donuts (1500 21st Ave S, Nashville) from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.where fans can get a free donuts courtesy of Dunkin’ Donuts, the Nashville Predators and Best Buddies (subject to availability).
Voting runs until 10:59 CDT tonight and the winner will be announced at the NHL Awards show at the Wynn Encore Theater on June 20, 2012. Go here to vote early and often for Pekka in the finals.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Rinne has received endorsements from Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Charlie Sheen and others in his quest to win the popularity contest.
The Preds have set up a special voting place today at Dunkin’ Donuts (1500 21st Ave S, Nashville) from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.where fans can get a free donuts courtesy of Dunkin’ Donuts, the Nashville Predators and Best Buddies (subject to availability).
Voting runs until 10:59 CDT tonight and the winner will be announced at the NHL Awards show at the Wynn Encore Theater on June 20, 2012. Go here to vote early and often for Pekka in the finals.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Friday, June 1, 2012
Patrick Cehlin signs deal with Predators at deadline
According to multiple sources, the Nashville Predators avoided losing the rights to Patrick Cehlin by signing him to a three-year contract worth $525,000 per year at the NHL level. The signing took place on Thursday, just before the Preds rights were set to expire on June 1.
Cehlin was a 2010, fifth round choice at the NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles. Here is his career statistics from Elite Prospects.
Cehlin appeared excited by the signing and received plenty of congratulatory salutations on his Facebook page.
Make the jump for the official release from the Nashville Predators...
Cehlin was a 2010, fifth round choice at the NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles. Here is his career statistics from Elite Prospects.
Cehlin appeared excited by the signing and received plenty of congratulatory salutations on his Facebook page.
Make the jump for the official release from the Nashville Predators...
Predators sign Daniel Bång to one-year contract
The Nashville Predators continue to keep their European scouts busy as they have now signed free agent forward Daniel Bång to a one-year, two-way contract.
Here is Bång's career statistics from Elite Prospects. Make the jump to see the full release from the Predators...
Here is Bång's career statistics from Elite Prospects. Make the jump to see the full release from the Predators...
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Gary Bettman's "State of the Union" Transcript
Every year, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman uses the platform of the opening game of the Stanley Cup Finals to deliver a "State of the Union" address to the media and fans. It always provides good insight into how the league performed, business-wise, during the season, and offers a few insights into where the NHL is headed.
This year's address was no different with updates on the Phoenix situation as well as other ownership issues, the Olympics in 2014, and upcoming collective bargaining with the NHLPA.
Make the jump for the complete transcript, courtesy of NHL Media Services...
This year's address was no different with updates on the Phoenix situation as well as other ownership issues, the Olympics in 2014, and upcoming collective bargaining with the NHLPA.
Make the jump for the complete transcript, courtesy of NHL Media Services...
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Predators sign defensive prospect Joonas Jarvinen
The Nashville Predators continue to stockpile young defensive prospects as they announced the signing of 23 year-old Joonas Jarvinen of Finland. The 6-3, 220 pound player was signed to a two-year, two-way entry level deal this morning.
Here is his career statistics from Elite Prospects. Make the jump for complete details from the Predators...
Here is his career statistics from Elite Prospects. Make the jump for complete details from the Predators...
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
POTG Stanley Cup Finals Predictions
This year's playoff season has been one of the most unpredictable on record with the sixth seeded New Jersey Devils and the eighth seeded Los Angeles Kings making it to a final showdown that no one would have predicted at the end of the season.
Like most folks, we struggled with our predictions, going 5-3 in the opening round and 2-2 in the second round. Our 1-1 record in the Conference Finals is directly attributable to thinking the Coyotes were a team of destiny after they cruised past the Predators.
Hopefully, this will be a time of redemption with the pick for the finals. Make the jump for the final breakdown...
Like most folks, we struggled with our predictions, going 5-3 in the opening round and 2-2 in the second round. Our 1-1 record in the Conference Finals is directly attributable to thinking the Coyotes were a team of destiny after they cruised past the Predators.
Hopefully, this will be a time of redemption with the pick for the finals. Make the jump for the final breakdown...
Pekka Rinne vs Claude Giroux in NHL 13 Final voting
Pekka Rinne of the Nashville Predators will face Claude Giroux of the Philadelphia Flyers in the final vote to who gets to don the cover of EA Sports NHL 13.
Rinne got past John Tavares in the semifinal while Giroux bested Evgeni Malkin on the other side of the bracket.
Voting runs until June 4 and the winner will be announced at the NHL Awards show at the Wynn Encore Theater on June 20, 2012. Go here to vote early and often for Pekka in the finals.
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Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Rinne got past John Tavares in the semifinal while Giroux bested Evgeni Malkin on the other side of the bracket.
Voting runs until June 4 and the winner will be announced at the NHL Awards show at the Wynn Encore Theater on June 20, 2012. Go here to vote early and often for Pekka in the finals.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Vote for Pekka for NHL 13
Last Goalie Remaining:
Rinne In Semifinals of EA Sports Cover Vote
VOTE HERE
Rinne In Semifinals of EA Sports Cover Vote
VOTE HERE
Preds goaltender Pekka Rinne moved on to the
Semifinals round of the EA Sports NHL 13 Cover Vote, edging Chicago Blackhawks
forward Patrick Sharp in Round 1 and NY Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist in
Round 2.
Voting
for the Semifinal Round runs NOW through Monday, May 28.
Rinne is matched-up against NY Islanders forward
John Tavares in the semifinals. Philadelphia Flyers forward Claude Giroux and
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin are matched head-to-head in the other
semifinal. Rinne is not only the lone goaltender remaining in the field, but the
lone player representing a team from the Western Conference. Winners of
the two semifinals will meet in a final voting to determine the cover player for
the EA Sports NHL 13 game.
The winner of the cover vote campaign will be
unveiled as the EA SPORTS NHL® 13 Cover Athlete at the 2012 NHL Awards™ on June
20 at the Wynn Las Vegas in Las Vegas.
There is no limit to how many times fans can vote so click here to vote now and vote often!
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Alexander Radulov named KHL MVP for third year in a row
For the third season in a row, the Nashville Predators' Alexander Radulov was named the Kontinental Hockey League's Most Valuable Player (a.k.a. The Golden Stick Award) for his regular season play with Salavat Yulaev Ufa.
Before joining the Predators in March, Radulov scored 25 goals and added 38 assist during the KHL regular season. In six playoff games he had six assists.
After joining the Predators, Radulov had three goals and four assists in nine regular season games and then had a goal and five assists in eight Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Radulov becomes a restricted free agent on July 1 and it is unclear what his plans for next season are at this time.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
Before joining the Predators in March, Radulov scored 25 goals and added 38 assist during the KHL regular season. In six playoff games he had six assists.
After joining the Predators, Radulov had three goals and four assists in nine regular season games and then had a goal and five assists in eight Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Radulov becomes a restricted free agent on July 1 and it is unclear what his plans for next season are at this time.
More Later...
Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass
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