Nashville Predators vs Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Predictions December 19th 2024

Penguins Look to Extend Streak Against Predators

The Pittsburgh Penguins aim to maintain momentum, while the Nashville Predators seek rare back-to-back wins.

Penguins Finding Their Groove

The Pittsburgh Penguins seem to have finally hit their stride. After a shaky start to the season, where they won just seven of their first 23 games and struggled to string together consecutive victories, the Penguins have turned things around. Since late November, they’ve posted an impressive 7-2-1 record.

Their latest triumph, a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the Los Angeles Kings, showcased the team’s resilience. Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk notched his first goal as a Penguin to tie the game late, while Rickard Rakell sealed the win just 1:44 into overtime. Goalie Alex Nedeljkovic made 29 crucial saves to keep Pittsburgh competitive.

Rickard Rakell, leading the team with 14 goals, has been instrumental in their resurgence. He’s racked up seven goals and five assists in the last 10 games, playing a key role in reviving the Penguins’ offense.

“We’re starting to get that same feeling we had during last season’s hot streak,” Rakell said, expressing optimism about the team’s current momentum.

Sidney Crosby, while awaiting his 601st career goal, remains a force on the ice with 10 assists in his last 10 games. The Penguins’ captain has been particularly effective against the Predators, boasting eight goals and 20 assists in 23 career matchups.

Predators Seeking Stability Amid Struggles

The Nashville Predators are tied with Chicago for the fewest points in the NHL, but they’ve shown signs of life recently. Following an eight-game losing streak (0-5-3), the Predators have managed to win two of their last three games.

Tuesday’s 2-0 victory over the New York Rangers marked a significant morale boost. Goaltender Juuse Saros made 25 saves, snapping his personal eight-game losing streak, while Jonathan Marchessault scored his eighth goal of the season.

“It’s been a tough stretch for us, but the last three games feel good,” Marchessault shared. “We’re starting to find a bit of identity and consistency.”

Marchessault has thrived at home, scoring seven of his eight goals in Nashville. His recent chemistry with Filip Forsberg and Steven Stamkos—who have combined for 10 points over the last four games—offers hope for continued offensive production.

However, Saros has yet to find consistency this season, with only one stretch of back-to-back wins in October. Backup goalie Justus Annunen provided solid support in a recent 4-1 win over Dallas, showcasing depth in net.

Penguins vs. Predators: Key Matchup

The Penguins hold a significant edge over the Predators, going 16-4-2 against them since October 2010. Goalie Alex Nedeljkovic has been sharp, stopping 87 of 95 shots over his last three starts, while Tristan Jarry boasts a stellar 1.98 goals-against average on the road during his current 2-0-1 stretch.

For Nashville, Roman Josi’s potential return could be pivotal. The star defenseman and team captain has missed three games with a lower-body injury, and his presence would bolster both the defense and offensive transition game.

As the Penguins look to extend their point streak and the Predators aim to secure consecutive wins for the first time in nearly two months, this matchup promises to deliver excitement.