In last night's game between the Minnesota Wild and Nashville Predators, two titans in Cole Smith and Jacob Middleton fought each other late in the first period. Nashville went up 2-0 early in the game, and when a drum behind the net between Smith and Middleton ensued, the Wild's defenceman saw an opportunity to level the momentum of the game.
Middleton landed a few hard uppercuts early on, and Smith proved to be no match. Middleton seemed content ragdolling him around afterwards, leaving Smith defenceless but unharmed until the referees stepped in.
As far as fight matchups go, this is as even as it gets. Middleton has more NHL experience, but both players are two young journeyman tough guys, fulfilling their roles in last night's bout.
The Wild attempted a rally in the third period, able to score one goal, but the Predators and goaltender Juuse Saros were able to hold on to a 2-1 lead to secure the win in regulation.
