3 Things: Nashville Predators @ St. Louis Blues (12.27.17)

The Nashville Predators look to get back on track after losing three straight games before the holiday break. It won't be easy as they face the leaders of the Central Division, the St. Louis Blues.

Here are three things to watch for in tonight's game:

1.) SOLID ROAD EFFORT- NASHVILLE

The Preds need to get back on track, and one way to do that would be with a nice road victory to take over the lead in the division. Nashville will need to be really good defensively, and the forwards are going to need to help out. The Preds will need to limit the mistakes with and without the puck and avoid turnovers. The Predators should get a good forecheck going early and win some battles along the boards. Nashville is going to need to be in good positioning and help each other out should the someone be out of position.

2.) EYE ON NASHVILLE D- ST. LOUIS

The Blues are going to need to keep an eye on the defensemen for the Predators. The defense corps isn't afraid to join the play in the offensive zone or shoot the puck. Nashville's defense will use the breakout pass to try to get out of their own zone quick so the Blues will also need to be aware of that. The Preds defensemen can also skate and move the puck extremely well so the Blues need to be aware of them at all times.

3.) GOALTENDING- NASHVILLE & ST. LOUIS

The goaltenders could play a big part in the outcome of the game. It could come down to one big save by either starting goalie. The goalies need to be square to the shooters and not give up too many rebounds chances because that leads to second chance opportunities. The goaltenders must make the easy save and not give up any soft goals. The players are going to need to get in front of the goalies to make life miserable and so they can't see the puck. This game could very well come down to which goalies makes the timely saves, whether at even strength or on special teams.