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So, should Nashville sit Radulov and Kostitsyn again?

Alexander Radulov, Andrei Kostitsyn

Nashville Predators right wing Alexander Radulov, center, of Russia, celebrates his goal with Andrei Kostitsyn (46), of Belarus, during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Detroit Red Wings in Detroit, Friday, March 30, 2012. The Predators won 4-1. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

AP

Barry Trotz didn’t exactly guarantee that suspended forwards Alex Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn would sit out Game 4 just like they did tonight if the Nashville Predators won, but he made a strong implication. The Predators did indeed take Game 3 against the Phoenix Coyotes by a score of 2-0, so the speculation can begin.

Naturally, we’ll keep an eye out for what Trotz has to say about the situation, but until then let’s have some fun playing armchair head coach. Before you share your thoughts in the comments, here are a few nuggets to chew on and provide context.


  • David Legwand - Radulov’s frequent linemate - scored the game-winner and had a disallowed goal, so that might have an impact on Trotz’s decision.
  • Andrei’s brother (but not-all-that-frequent linemate) Sergei Kostitsyn collected an assist, so it’s not like he’s wallowing in sibling-less self-pity.
  • Here’s a telling fact if there ever was one: both Radulov and Kostitsyn aren’t under contract with the Predators (yet) going into the 2012-13 season, so hurting their feelings isn’t exactly an enormous concern.
  • Apparently Don Cherry critiqued the Predators for suspending the two forwards, for whatever that’s worth.

Regardless of what Trotz actually decides, what would you do? Share your thoughts in the comments.