NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Among the grown men and hockey equipment in the Nashville Predators locker room, you’ll find a variety of action figures.
The toys, an idea created by assistant coach Dan Hinote halfway through the year, are a rewards system. The penalty kill players of the month, one for offense and defense, get to choose a toy from Hinote’s collection.
“Especially on the penalty kill unit we take a lot of pride in it. It’s a big part of the game,” Predators forward Cole Smith said.
Smith, who has been tabbed for his performance twice, admits the toys may look a little ridiculous, but they make the gritty parts of hockey feel a little more appreciated.
“Any time you can kind of get recognized for doing your part on that special team it’s pretty cool. They might be a little funny looking in your stall and stuff but I think the guys that get them it means a lot.”
Hinote’s idea has nothing to do with the Xs and Os of the game. However, it is the type of thing that brings a little fun to the team.
“These are the little things that make the season fun. Sometimes it gets a little long and having little games like that, it’s a fun thing but it’s also great to reward those guys,” Roman Josi said.
There is a balance between keeping things light and focusing on the task at hand. Nashville is hoping they have the right mixture as they begin the playoffs with a first-round matchup against Vancouver.
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