Game Preview: Nashville Predators Face Off Against Colorado Avalanche
Key Details
- Teams: Nashville Predators (12-14-4, 8th in Central Division) vs. Colorado Avalanche (22-2-7, 1st in Central Division)
- Date: Tonight at 8:00 PM CST
- Venue: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado
- Broadcast: Watch on WTVF Channel 5 or listen on 102.5 The Game
- Betting Line: Predators +1.5, Avalanche -1.5, with an over/under set at 6.5 goals (+100/-120)
Strong Performances from the First Line
The resurgence of the Nashville Predators can be largely credited to their top line, which has been delivering impressive results over the past eight games. Steven Stamkos stands out, contributing 10 points, highlighted by a remarkable four-goal performance in a decisive 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues. Meanwhile, Luke Evangelista has also shown his prowess, achieving 13 points, with four of those being in multi-point games. Ryan O’Reilly, the team’s most consistent player this season, adds to the mix with five points in just five games. The trio played a pivotal role in securing six wins out of their recent eight matches, including a tightly contested 4-3 shootout win against the Avalanche on Tuesday, where O’Reilly was the key player with the only shootout goal.
Goaltending Excellence from Saros
Goaltender Juuse Saros has bounced back following a tough outing against the Carolina Hurricanes, where he was pulled from the game after allowing over three goals. Since then, he has exhibited some of his finest form yet this season. In December alone, he has posted a commendable 4-1-0 record, featuring a goals-against average of 2.64 and a save percentage of .921—significant improvements from his November statistics. Notably, Saros produced a stellar performance against the Avalanche, stopping 39 out of 42 shots, and he followed with another strong showing against the Blues, making 24 saves on 26 shots.
Predators Short-Handed
Nashville will be traveling with a limited roster as they deal with injuries and trades. With Cole Smith absent and the recent trade of Spencer Stastney to the Edmonton Oilers, the Predators are set to field only 11 forwards and six defensemen during this two-game road trip. General manager Barry Trotz hinted at roster changes coming soon with Justin Barron nearing a return and the opportunity for younger forwards to step up following the trade. However, before facing the Avalanche, the only roster change announced was sending Zach L’Heureux to Milwaukee due to injury. Interestingly, the Predators have managed to adapt and thrive despite these reduced numbers in recent games.
Ready to Challenge the Top-Ranked Avalanche
Although the Predators recently claimed victory over the Avalanche, Colorado remains the top team in the NHL standings. In a remarkable response to their loss in Nashville, the Avalanche displayed their strength with a convincing 6-2 win against the Florida Panthers on Thursday, featuring six goal-scorers. Nathan MacKinnon continues to lead the league with 53 points, including 25 goals, while teammate Martin Necas ranks high with 29 assists. Additionally, Colorado has four players among the top five in plus/minus ratings, with MacKinnon and Necas both making the list. In goal, Scott Wedgewood, a former Predators player, has performed impressively with 13 wins and an enviable 2.11 goals-against average. Backup Mackenzie Blackwood also boasts commendable statistics. At home, the Avalanche are formidable, suffering only two losses this season, maintaining a dominant presence.
Conclusion
As the Predators prepare to take on the Avalanche tonight, they will need to harness their recent momentum, especially from their first line and Saros, to secure another victory against the top team in the league. Expect an exciting matchup as Nashville aims to capitalize on their previous win while Colorado seeks to re-establish their dominance.
