The Nashville Predators are looking to bounce back after a tough 3-0 loss to the Colorado Avalanche, where they struggled to capitalize despite outshooting their opponents 35-26. The defeat was particularly disappointing for the Predators, coming on Hockey Fights Cancer Night at Bridgestone Arena, as they allowed a quick goal just 15 seconds into the match. As the team prepares to host the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers on Monday night, they are eager to end their two-game losing streak.
On a brighter note, the team welcomed back captain Roman Josi to the lineup after a 12-game absence due to an upper-body injury. Josi made an immediate impact, contributing four shots and blocking another in nearly 20 minutes of ice time. Prior to his return, the Predators struggled with a 3-7-2 record, and they stand at 3-4-2 with him in the lineup this season.
The upcoming game will be a challenge for Nashville as they face a Panthers team coming off a loss to the Edmonton Oilers. The Panthers have shown strong performances recently, winning four of their last six games. Historically, Florida has found success in their matches against the Predators, having swept their meetings last season with a commanding 10-3 aggregate score.
In terms of statistics, the Predators’ power play continues to be an area of concern, currently operating at a rate of 15.4%, placing them 26th in the NHL. Head coach Andrew Brunette has revamped the power play units, looking for ways to enhance productivity. The penalty kill, however, remains solid, ranking 13th in the league with an 82.0% success rate.
Leading the Predators offensively, Filip Forsberg heads the team with eight goals and 15 points, followed closely by Ryan O’Reilly and rookie Matthew Wood, who both contribute significantly to the scoreboard. In goal, Juuse Saros is striving for consistency with a record of 6-8-3 and a 2.85 goals-against average.
As both teams take to the ice at Bridgestone Arena, the matchup is set for 7 PM CST, and fans are hopeful that the return of Josi and the potential adjustments made by the Predators can turn their fortunes around against the formidable Panthers.