The victor in Game 5 will take a huge step toward a Round One win in the Nashville Predators and Dallas Stars' series. Game 5 is today at 2 p.m. (CT) at Bridgestone Arena.
The Predators fell behind quickly in Game 4, allowing three power-play goals and four overall in the first period. The final 40 minutes played out relatively evenly with both teams getting a goal for a 5-1 Dallas victory. According to NHL PR, when a best-of-seven series is tied 2-2, the winner of Game 5 owns an all-time series record of 205-55 (78.8%).
Nashville held a full practice on Friday and was joined by Brian Boyle (appendix procedure; week-to-week) and Wayne Simmonds (lower-body; week-to-week). Boyle participated in line rushes. Forward Rocco Grimaldi did not practice and was given a maintenance day.
The Preds did not hold a morning skate on Saturday. Below is a Predators projected lineup based on Friday's practice:
Game 5 Projected Lineup: Stars vs. Predators
Brian Boyle, Wayne Simmonds Skate on Friday, Playing Status Unclear
© John Russell
