Vladimir Sobotka (17) tries to lift the puck past Nashville Predators goaltender Carter Hutton (30) in the third period. UPI/Rob Cornforth
David Backes, Vladimir Sobotka and T.J. Oshie scored before within the first ten minutes as the Blues chased Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne in a 4-2 season-opening win Thursday night at Scottrade Center.
Alexander Steen and Backes each had a goal and an assist for the Blues, and defenseman Alex Pietrangelo added a pair of assists. Jaroslav Halak stopped 28 shots to improve to 9-3-3 lifetime against the Predators.
The Blues scored three goals on six shots in the first 7:40 of the game, prompting Nashville coach Barry Trotz to pull Rinne. The Blues also scored on their first two power play chances and finished 2-for-4. St. Louis’ penalty killers denied all four Nashville advantages.
AUDIO Mike Reeves’ game wrap (:30)