Nashville Predators left wing Gabriel Bourque, center, is congratulated by Paul Gaustad (28) and Jordin Tootoo (22) during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Detroit Red Wings in Detroit, Friday, March 30, 2012. (AP Photo)NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Nashville Predators will take on the Detroit Red Wings at Bridgestone Arena Wednesday night for game one of Stanley Cup playoffs. It is Nashville's chance to show the country why it's called "Smashville."
The Preds are hoping to make a little team history and put themselves in the driver's seat to win a Stanley Cup.
While the Predators may be a favorite to win, the Red Wings have history on their side. They are in the playoffs for the 21st consecutive season and haven't lost a first-round series since 2006. The Predators have only won one playoff series in the team's 13 seasons.
This isn't the first time Predators have gone head-to-head with the Red Wings in the postseason. They matched up in 2004 and 2008, with the Red Wings winning those series in six games.
These stats aren't bringing down the fans, with the Preds claiming the number four seed in the Western Conference and securing home-ice advantage. Sports analysts will tell you the Predators have a tougher team than ever. Predators have an offense and a defense ranked in the top 10 of the NHL.
The game starts Wednesday at 7 p.m., but the plaza party begins at 4 p.m. Predators will also host game two, and if necessary games five and seven.
