Kostitsyn, Nashville’s first 20-goal scorer, lives up to potential

Sergei Kostitsyn became the the Nashville Predators first 20-goal scorer this season when he scored during Saturday afternoon’s 4-3 overtime defeat to the Detroit Red Wings.

Last off-season, Kostitsyn was traded to Nashville from Montreal for the negotiating rights of two players the Predators organization had no intention of resigning, Dan Ellis and Dustin Boyd. Kostitsyn, a restricted free agent, signed a one-year deal with the Predators worth $550 000.

The Canadiens had no room for Kostitsyn on their roster and suspended the forward twice for refusing to play for the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey League. When Kostitsyn wouldn’t report to Hamilton, he stated that he knew how well he could play and didn’t belong in the AHL. Last season, during the Eastern Conference finals the Habs also told Kostitsyn he was not welcome at morning skate because of his lack of work habits.

Tennessee native to make NHL debut tonight

Tonight the Nashville Predators hit the ice against the Carolina Hurricanes for the first of three preseason games being played at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators also play three away road games before the regular season starts on October 7th.

The roster for the Predators is made up of mostly prospects. Cody Franson, Marcel Goc, Jordin Tootoo, JP Dumont, Patrick Hornqvist and Pekka Rinne are the only Predators regulars who’ll be given ice time when the puck drops at 7 p.m.

Nashville players in the lineup who are vying for roster spots include Sergei Kostitsyn, Jonas Andersson, Ryan Parent as well as top prospects Ryan Ellis, Jonathon Blum and Taylor Beck. Anders Lindback is sharing duties in goal with Rinne. But all eyes will be on Brentwood native, Blake Geoffrion.

Geoffrion will play for the first time in front of his hometown as a member of the Nashville Predators. For Geoffrion, tonight’s game will be a special one. “I’ve been a fan [of the Predators] since they started playing in 1998. To play for your home town is the best thing. It isn’t a huge market but it’s special to play in the rink I grew up.”

As Training Camp Starts, An Unusual Suspect Shines

The Nashville Predators future took to the ice at Centennial Sportsplex Tuesday afternoon in their first, and only, practice before heading to Florida. Nashville’s prospects play the Panthers rookies tomorrow and again on Thursday before heading back for their last on-ice testing session before full training camp ice sessions begin for everyone on Saturday.

It comes as no surprise that some prospects would stand out above the rest. Predators fans have heard nothing but how impressive Swiss defenceman Roman Josi is with his passing game and hard shot. Ryan Ellis, the Canadian Junior phenom, has a similar style and easily impresses. The 5’9 Hamilton, Ontario native can find the open man, move the puck up the ice and has a sharp one-timer. These skills were on full display Tuesday afternoon.