Oops, He Did It Again: Spaling Streak Hits 15

Nick Spaling scored in the Predators 3-2 win over the Blackhawks on Tuesday. (Sarah Fuqua)

The last time that Ray Emery started in a game against the Nashville Predators was Game 6 of the 2011 Western Conference Quarterfinal at Bridgestone Arena while he was a member of the Anaheim Ducks.

On that night, the Predators’ Nick Spaling demonized Emery, scoring two goals – including the game winner.

Tuesday night, Ray Emery made his first start at Bridgestone Arena since last year’s playoffs – this time as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks.

At 17:21 of the second period, Ryan Ellis fired a slapshot from the point that was tipped into the net by none other than Nick Spaling. The Predators took a 2-1 lead.

“It is a pretty good omen,” Nashville head coach Barry Trotz said. “We have a pretty good record when Spaling scores.”

With the 3-2 victory on Tuesday night, the Predators have never lost in regulation when Nick Spaling has scored. Including playoffs, Nashville is 14-0-1 all-time when he gets at least one goal.

For Spaling, the goal ended a drought of sorts for him. His last goal and point had come exactly on January 14 – exactly one month prior. He had not found the scoresheet in any fashion in a stretch 12 games.

“Since the All Star break, he hasn’t been as strong as we needed,” Trotz said. “Hopefully that goal will get him headed in the right direction.”

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Tags: Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, NHL, Nick Spaling