The Nashville Predators are demonstrating resilience this season, pivoting from a challenging start to a promising mid-season run. In a dramatic turn of events, the Predators secured a franchise-record 18-game point streak last season, but this year’s journey had been precarious, with the team struggling at the bottom of the league just a month ago. However, recent performance indicates a potential playoffs push, as the team has won 10 of its last 14 games, including a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the Minnesota Wild on December 23, 2025.
Coach Andrew Brunette, reflecting on the team’s efforts, stated, “We’re not where we want to be, but we’re trying like heck to get there.” The Predators experienced a nadir with a costly 8-3 defeat to the Florida Panthers on November 24, which left them with a 6-12-4 record and the lowest points percentage in the NHL. Yet, fueled by enhanced offensive plays and solid goaltending from Juuse Saros, the team began to refocus and rally.
Notable contributions from key players like Ryan O’Reilly, Filip Forsberg, and recently acquired Steven Stamkos have invigorated the team’s performance. Stamkos has notably turned his season around, scoring a team-high 11 goals in the last 14 games and leading the league this December with five game-winning goals. His recent contributions exemplify the growing chemistry and collaboration among the team’s lines.
General manager Barry Trotz remains cautiously optimistic about the Predators’ current form, suggesting that sustaining their hot streak is attainable but dependent on avoiding injuries and maintaining consistency. Nashville is currently just three points behind the Utah Mammoth for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference, with three games in hand, hinting at their potential to re-enter postseason contention.
With the holiday break approaching, the Predators find themselves in an encouraging position, embracing the fight to solidify their place in the playoffs. As they continue to build their identity and stack wins, the future looks brighter for this once-troubled team.