The Nashville Predators once again fell victim to the Edmonton Oilers, but this time it was in more ways than one.
The Predators were down 4-1 in the third period and Jeremy Lauzon tried to give his team a spark. That turned into a heavyweight fight with Vasily Podkolzin that didn’t end well for the big Nashville defenseman.
Podkolzin, 6’1, 190lbs ate some punches at the beginning of the fight to 6’3, 225lbs Lauzon, but the fight quickly turned as the Oilers’ forward landed a massive blow to Lauzon before a second one that helped him to the ice.
Lauzon is known for his toughness as he led the league in hits last season by a wide margin. It’s not often you will see him get dropped to the ice even by a check, nevermind in a fight will a player smaller and shorter than him.
With how Lauzon plays the game, he is definitely one of the heartbeats of the team, though less recognized for his contributions. He is there to give the Predators a spark when they need it in whichever way he can. This won’t slow his physical play down, but the hope is that he is okay and will still play with the edge and drop the gloves when needed.
Related: Predators Snap 4-Game Point Streak with 5-1 Loss to Oilers
There aren’t too many Nashville players who will do so and he is definitely a unique talent. While also losing the game 5-1 after a 4-2 defeat at the hands of the Oilers earlier in the season, the Predators will have to find a way to finally change their fortunes when playing the Oilers because after last season, the West goes through Edmonton.
The Predators do have a bit of a different team and someone like Jonathan Marchessault knows all about doing what it takes to get past the Oilers, but it is also a much different Edmonton team since the Vegas Golden Knights won the Stanley Cup with Marchessault leading the way.
Nashville will have one final chance to get revenge on the Oilers in more ways than one in their final meeting of the regular season on November 14.
Visit The Hockey News Nashville Predators team site to stay updated on the latest news, game day coverage, player features, podcasts and more.
