The NHL calls the Preds exhibition today a ‘showcase game.’ Probably because a ‘you have 60 minutes to get your entire team ready for the most unpredictable playoffs of all time game’ was too long.
The Predators and Stars faceoff in Edmonton at 3 p.m. Thursday, with pregame coverage starting on 102.5 The Game an hour prior. It’s an exhibition game created unlike any other, with Nashville planning to use both of their goaltenders and an expanded lineup that allows two extra skaters in uniform. Head coach John Hynes joined Darren, Daunic & Chase Wednesday to highlight what he needs to see in the team’s lone tune-up.
“First, is the competitive level we need to be at for game one [of the playoffs],” Hynes said on 102.5 The Game. “You can’t tiptoe your way into this exhibition game.”
This is not a game to try different line combinations or creative power play units, this is a mad dash towards top game shape.
“There’s got to be a physicality level you play with,” Hynes said. “It’s gonna be raised with Dallas against us than it would Nashville against Nashville… since you’re going against someone who isn’t your teammate.”
Hynes wants his players to get into situations that raise the intensity level and pace that can only be replicated in true game action. That means make the first hit, especially against a Stars team that has three round robin games before their true playoff opener.
The ultimate question from the Preds’ new-ish bench boss:
“Can we get to the identity that we want to play with that we’ve worked on on a regular basis in a more natural game situation?”
A large portion of the recent phase three training camp centered on Hynes’ new system, and this will be the first outside test after that extended relearning period. It’s also the team’s final chance at finding form before the Stanley Cup Playoffs start Sunday.
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