Pred's Rinne Has Some Fun in Elimination Games

VANCOUVER -- Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne has been around the organization long enough to know what is a signature moment in franchise history.

He knew going into Rogers Arena on Saturday that Game 5 against the Canucks was a big one because it was the first time in Predators' history that they were facing elimination in the second round. Following the 4-3 win, which was backed by his 31 saves and two goals apiece for Joel Ward and David Legwand, Rinne called it the biggest game in franchise history.

He also had several other things to say about the Predators staving off elimination and forcing Game 6 Monday in Nashville:

Q: What does this win say about your team's resiliency?

A: That's the way we are. We've done this during the regular season many times, but obviously this is the biggest game so far for us probably in the Preds' history. For the organization it's the biggest game ever, and we did a great job. We battled hard, came really strong in the third period, got two big goals from Joel Ward and at the end showed a lot of character, blocking shots, doing the little things, just playing for the team.

Q: How does it feel to know you're playing another game?

A: It's so much fun right now. These are the games you live for. You practice hard all year long and we still get to play -- it feels great. It's the best time of the year, for sure.

For the full interview by NHL.com Click Here.

Pred's Rinne Has Some Fun in Elimination Games