Preds Start Off Strong in Home Opening

The Nashville Predators opened the season at home against the defending Stanley Cup champions. The Preds/Bolts game proved to be a tight checking affair in front of a sold out crowd in the Nashville Arena.

During a rough first period, the Predators were privy to 4 power play opportunities, including the 2 man advantage they had near the end of the first period where rookie Adam Hall scored his first career CLUTCH goal with helpers from Pronger and Modano.

After that goal, the activity of the game died down significantly as no team was able to net any other goals. Hall's goal proved to be the game winner. Vokoun started the season with a shut out stopping all of Tampa's 21 shots, while Thibault stopped 28 of Nashville's 29 shots.

All eyes were on Thornton as it was his first game as a Predator. Thornton was held off the scoresheet registering only 3 shots and 1 hit in the 23 minutes of ice time he played. Workhorse Chris Pronger led all skaters by playing 30 minutes of the game.

The Predators have the night off tonight, but will host the New York Islanders tomorrow night in another tough battle. The Isles had a convincing 6-2 victory over the Sabres with Sakic, Peca, and Hossa leading the way. Top defensive pairing of Pronger and Hamrlik will have their hands full shutting down those types of stars.

The Preds then go on a 4 game road trip facing tough teams again such as the Habs, Isles (again), and Leafs. The Predators are looking to rebound after a disappointing season last year and are looking to prove themselves early against the tough opponents they face off against at the start of this season's schedule.

Nashville looked strong in their first game and Hall is trying to quiet the critics and show that Nashville's right wing is solid down to the 3rd line as that was an area of concern for Nashville. At the moment, it is way too early to tell. However, things are looking much better for this season's Predators.