The Nashville Predators got off to a disastrous start in Game 1 against the Colorado Avalanche, surrendering five goals in the opening period of play. David Rittich had a nightmare of an evening, recording just 8 saves on 13 shots on goal before the Predators pulled him from action 15 minutes into the first period. In need of a boost for Game 2, the Predators have announced their starting goalie, opting to send out Connor Ingram in place of Rittich on Thursday night.

John Hynes revealed that Rittich would be headed to the bench to serve as the backup for Ingram, who stepped up and performed well in relief in Game 1. After being subbed on late in the first period, Ingram recorded 30 saves on 32 shots on goal, logging a .938 save percentage, a vast improvement over the abysmal .615 save percentage from Rittich.

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While the Predators couldn't turn the tide in Game 1 and pull off a comeback, the improved play in the cage was a positive sign, and Hynes is opting to keep Ingram in net. A matchup with the high-octane Avalanche offense is never a friendly scene for a goaltender, but Ingram will need to step up with the stakes raised once again and see if he can will the Predators to a win.

The Avs will be attacking relentlessly all night, and there's a real chance Ingram faces as many as 40 shots on target in the game. With the likes of Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, Gabriel Landeskog, and the other stars on Colorado's loaded roster, Ingram should expect a barrage of shots from various distances and will need to be sharp throughout the 60 minutes.