The main talking point heading into Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final has been whether or not the Nashville Predators will stick with Pekka Rinne in net or if they would turn to backup Juuse Saros.
It might take until puck drop to officially know, but it appears as though Rinne will in fact be the starter after he was the first goalie off the ice at Saturday’s morning skate. When asked directly, “Who is your starting goaltender tonight?” Predators head coach Peter Laviolette responded to reporters with a, “Next question.”
The Pens chased the six-foot-five netminder Wednesday, beating him four times and taking a 2-0 series lead on the Preds. Rinne’s .778 save percentage and 4.00 GAA through two games is what led to the crease conundrum.
“I mean, he’s been the backbone of our team for three years. Longer than that,” Laviolette said. “I’ve been here for three years, so that’s all I can really speak to. Whenever there’s any adversity, Pekka has always faced it. Had a terrific regular season. Got us to this point through the regular season, comes into the playoffs, has had a terrific run. There’s a lot of confidence, not only with our team, but also with Pekka.”
When probed on if there is any temptation as a coach to tinker with the lineup when you’re down in a series Laviolette dropped another, “Next question.”
Veteran winger P.A. Parenteau did explain, however, that he will suit up for Game 3, so that’s at least one lineup change Laviolette is making.
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