Martin Brodeur and the St. Louis Blues: Time to Split

Jan 4, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Nashville Predators goalie

(30) blocks a shot against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

Nashville Predators

Similar to the Islanders, the Predators are atop their division thanks in large part to the Vezina-caliber play of starter Pekka Rinne.  Rinne has been a workhorse, starting 34 of the Predators’ 39 games so far, one season removed from missing significant time with injuries.  With a suffocating defense, elite goaltending, and a high-quality offense, this team is built for a long playoff run, assuming Rinne stays healthy.

Unfortunately for the Predators, backup Carter Hutton hasn’t been able to replicate his season from last year.  He’s only started five games so far this season, yet to win one.  His 2.75 goals against average and .899 save percentage fail to inspire confidence, and it’s clear that coach Peter Laviolette does not have faith in the 29-year old.

Enter Martin Brodeur.  While on the face it would not appear to be much of an upgrade, if at all, Brodeur’s resume should at least force Laviolette to rest Rinne more in order to keep him fresh for the playoffs.  Brodeur wouldn’t have to move far from St. Louis and would be able to remain in the same division, perhaps even getting the opportunity to play against the Blues before the season ends.  Brodeur’s three Stanley Cup rings and swagger in the net (even after losing a step or two) should give the Predators confidence to play him 10-12 games the final half of the season and prepare for a playoff run.  For the surprising Predators, it makes sense.

Next: Minnesota Wild