Flames vs. Predators: Projected Lineups, Key Notes Ahead of Tonight’s Clash in Nashville
The Calgary Flames are set to face off against the Nashville Predators tonight at Bridgestone Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Both teams come into this one looking to build momentum as the season grinds into its midsection, and the projected lineups offer a few intriguing storylines to keep an eye on.
Let’s break down what we’re expecting on both sides of the ice.
Calgary Flames Projected Lineup
Forwards:
- Jonathan Huberdeau - Morgan Frost - Matt Coronato
- Yegor Sharangovich - Nazem Kadri - Joel Farabee
- Connor Zary - Mikael Backlund - Blake Coleman
- Dryden Hunt - John Beecher - Adam Klapka
Defense:
- Kevin Bahl - Rasmus Andersson
- Yan Kuznetsov - MacKenzie Weegar
- Joel Hanley - Jake Bean
Goaltenders:
- Devin Cooley
- Dustin Wolf
Scratches: Sam Morton, Ryan Lomberg, Brayden Pachal
Injured: Martin Pospisil (undisclosed), Zayne Parekh (upper body), Samuel Honzek (upper body)
Status Report:
Devin Cooley is getting the nod in net again, marking his fifth start in the last six games.
That’s a clear sign the Flames are giving him a real look between the pipes, and he’s earned it with some steady play of late. With Wolf backing him up, Calgary has a young tandem that’s being tested in real time.
Up front, the top line of Huberdeau, Frost, and Coronato brings a mix of vision, pace, and scoring touch. Huberdeau’s playmaking remains a focal point, while Coronato continues developing into a reliable finisher. Watch for Kadri’s line to bring the energy - Sharangovich and Farabee complement his aggressive style with speed and two-way ability.
On the back end, Rasmus Andersson continues to anchor the blue line alongside the big-bodied Kevin Bahl. The pairing of Kuznetsov and Weegar adds a nice blend of physicality and puck movement, while Hanley and Bean round out the group with steady depth minutes.
Nashville Predators Projected Lineup
Forwards:
- Steven Stamkos - Ryan O’Reilly - Luke Evangelista
- Filip Forsberg - Erik Haula - Jonathan Marchessault
- Michael Bunting - Tyson Jost - Ozzy Wiesblatt
- Reid Schaefer - Fedor Svechkov - Matthew Wood
Defense:
- Spencer Stastney - Roman Josi
- Brady Skjei - Nick Blankenburg
- Nicolas Hague - Nick Perbix
Goaltenders:
- Juuse Saros
- Justus Annunen
Scratched: Adam Wilsby
Injured: Cole Smith (lower body), Michael McCarron (lower body), Justin Barron (lower body)
Status Report:
No morning skate for the Preds today, but there’s good news on the injury front.
Jonathan Marchessault practiced on Monday and could be back in action after missing two games with a lower-body issue. If he’s in, that second line with Forsberg and Haula gets a serious offensive jolt.
The top line is loaded with veteran savvy and skill. Stamkos, O’Reilly, and Evangelista form a trio that can hurt you in a variety of ways - whether it’s Stamkos’ shot, O’Reilly’s elite faceoff work and defensive play, or Evangelista’s growing confidence with the puck.
On defense, Roman Josi continues to be the heartbeat of this blue line. He’s paired with the mobile Stastney, while Skjei and Blankenburg bring a solid mix of experience and edge. Hague and Perbix round out a deep defensive unit that’s been quietly effective.
In goal, it’s Juuse Saros expected to get the start. He remains one of the league’s most technically sound netminders, and he’ll be tested by a Flames team that’s shown flashes of offensive creativity.
What to Watch Tonight
- Goaltending Battle: Cooley vs. Saros is a compelling matchup.
Cooley is still carving out his NHL path, while Saros is the established star. If Cooley can hold his own in this one, it’ll be another step forward for the Flames’ goalie situation.
- Marchessault’s Return: If he suits up, Nashville’s top-six forward group becomes even more dangerous.
His ability to generate offense in tight spaces could be a game-changer.
- Special Teams Impact: With both teams featuring skilled forwards and mobile defensemen, the power play and penalty kill units could play a major role. Watch for Weegar and Josi to be heavily involved in those situations.
- Youth Movement: Both teams are leaning on young players in key roles - from Coronato and Zary in Calgary to Wiesblatt and Wood in Nashville. This game offers a glimpse into the future for both franchises.
Tonight’s matchup might not be a marquee showdown on the national calendar, but for fans paying attention, it’s a fascinating blend of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and two teams trying to find their identity as the season progresses. Keep an eye on the pace early - whichever team dictates tempo could seize control quickly.