Quick Hitter Preview: Blackhawks vs. Predators

Hawks vs. Predators - 1/8/19

Author:
Jonnie Nonnie
Publish date:
Jan 9, 2019 3:08 PM EST

After falling to the Calgary Flames on Monday night, the Hawks continue their homestand tonight against the Nashville Predators in a national TV matchup. Nashville looks to build on their two-game win streak, while the Hawks aim to get back in the win column. The season series between the two teams is currently even at one, with the home team winning both times. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 PM central time.

Three Things

The Blackhawks were short-handed four times on Monday night as Dylan Strome landed in the penalty box on three separate occasions. Nashville's power play numbers (22 goals, 15.1% conversion) are not great, but the Hawks need to stay out of the box to avoid letting momentum swing in the Predators favor.
Henri Jokiharju will return to the Blackhawks lineup tonight after missing ten games while participating in the World Junior Championships for Finland. Defenseman Brent Seabrook missed today's morning skate with an illness and his status is questionable for tonight's game.
Nashville is nearing the end of a six-game road trip, with tonight being the fifth of those contests. Pekka Rinne shut out the Maple Leafs on Monday night, so the Hawks must come out of the gate quickly and pepper him with shots.