NHL Hockey Player News

Rinne allowed one goal on 24 shots in the Predators’ win over the Blues on Thursday. Rinne has now won his last two starts and three of his last five (3-0-2) with a 1.36 GAA and .950 SV%. Rinne’s numbers are improving, but he struggled in his first start against the Ducks—Rinne was pulled after allowing four goals on 17 shots in a 6-1 loss in the first meeting.

Gibson allowed three goals 18 shots in the Ducks’ overtime loss in Columbus on Wednesday. Jonathan Bernier got the nod and the win on Thursday, but Gibson is expected to start tonight in Nashville. Gibson has gone 2-1-1 with a 2.33 GAA and .913 SV% in four starts this month and he also won his first start vs. Nashville by stopping 28 of 29 shots.

Ward allowed three goals on 26 shots in the Hurricanes’ loss to Anaheim on Thursday. Ward has gone 1-2-2 with a 2.52 GAA and .916 SV% in his last five starts and tonight he has a tough assignment with the Capitals in town. Washington is dangerous and Ward is just 1-2-0 with a 3.06 GAA and .893 SV% in three games on home-ice.

Neuvirth surrendered five goals on 17 shots in the Flyers’ loss to Montreal last Saturday. Steve Mason started the last two games, including last night, so expect Neuvirth to start Saturday vs. the Wild. Minnesota comes into Saturday having won four of their last six games and have significantly better goaltending than the Flyers right now.

Grubauer allowed two goals on 25 shots in the Capitals’ win in Vancouver on October 29th. Braden Holtby started the last six games, including last night’s contest, so Grubauer to get the call in Carolina. Grubauer has won each of his two starts while stopping 41 of 43 shots (.954 SV%). He makes for a nice spot-start on a busy Saturday.

Kassian has missed the last three games with an undisclosed injury, but he was back at practice on Saturday and is expected to play Sunday vs. the Rangers. Kassian has two goals and two assists (four points) in 12 games so far this season.

Tkachuk will miss his second straight game after having stitches on his wrist. Tkachuk remains day-to-day and could be back in the lineup on Tuesday in Minnesota.

Howden, 24, has been off to a great start in Manitoba, scoring seven goals with two assists (nine points) in his first 11 games. The former Florida Panther has 17 points (10G / 7A) in 92 career NHL games and could make his Jets debut on Sunday.