Predators split preseason doubleheader with Panthers
Game 1: Panthers 4, Predators 1
What happened: In their preseason opener, the Predators held tight through 40 minutes before allowing three early goals in the third period. Predators forward James Neal scored Nashville's only goal on the power play near the midway mark of the third period.
Turning point: Holding onto a 1-0 lead through most of the first two periods, the Panthers buried the Predators under a three-goal barrage. Florida scored those goals within the first five minutes of the third period, putting the game out of reach.
Notable performances: Defenseman Matt Carle, making his Predators debut, led the team in ice time with 26:08; defenseman Yannick Weber, also making his team debut, assisted on Neal's power-play goal; forward Calle Jarnkrok started at first-line center and won 63 percent of his faceoffs.
Key statistic: Marek Mazanec made 15 saves on 16 shots through the first two periods before being replaced by Jonas Gunnarsson. Mazanec is in position to be the Predators’ backup goaltender this season, and a steady performance like Tuesday’s will bolster his case.
Game 2: Predators 2, Panthers 1
What happened: Scoring once on 37 shots in the first game of the doubleheader, the Predators got two goals in the first period, which was enough for their first victory of the season.
Turning point: The first goal of the game, scored by forward Miikka Salomaki on the power play.
Notable performances: Salomaki and forward Pontus Aberg had one goal each; goaltender Juuse Saros made 13 saves in roughly 33 minutes of playing time; defenseman Anthony Bitetto collected the primary assist on both of the Predators' goals.
Key statistic: Per the radio broadcast, Predators forward Craig Smith left the game during the first period and didn't return. Smith, who was hampered by injury during the playoffs last season, only had one minute of ice time before exiting.
Up next: The Predators practice Wednesday ahead of their next preseason game Thursday against the Blue Jackets in Columbus, Ohio (6 p.m., 102.5-FM).
Reach Adam Vingan on Twitter @AdamVingan.
