Predators Look to Extend Hot Streak Against Struggling Ducks
The Nashville Predators are surging at the right time, riding a four-game winning streak as they head to Anaheim for a Friday night showdown with the Ducks.
After a gritty 3-2 victory against the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, the Predators are aiming to tighten their grip in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Ducks are struggling to stay in the playoff hunt, dropping four of their last five, including a narrow 3-2 loss to the Utah Hockey Club on Wednesday.
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Nashville’s Winning Formula
The Predators showed resilience in San Jose, overcoming a blown 2-0 lead to secure their eighth road win of the season.
- Filip Forsberg led the charge with a goal and an assist.
- Kieffer Bellows broke the 2-2 tie with a clutch third-period goal.
- Steven Stamkos found the back of the net once again, while Juuse Saros stood tall with 25 saves.
Coach Andrew Brunette praised his team’s effort.
“It was tough sledding,” Brunette said. “We worked really hard, and they’re a fast team. We managed things well for most of the game. The power play was huge, and (Saros) was fantastic.”
Stamkos’ goal was a historic one, marking his 577th career tally and tying him with Mark Recchi for 22nd on the NHL’s all-time scoring list. The veteran forward has been on a tear recently, racking up five goals and four assists over his last four games.
Another big moment came from Bellows, who was called up from the AHL and scored his first NHL goal since March 2023.
“It means a lot,” Bellows said. “Seeing my teammates that excited for me made it even more special. We’re a close group, and I’m ready to help this team win more games.”
Ducks Searching for Consistency
Anaheim showed some fight against Utah, erasing a 2-0 deficit before ultimately falling short. Dylan Guenther netted the game-winner for Utah on the power play in the third period.
- Alex Killorn and Mason McTavish scored for Anaheim.
- Ville Husso made his Ducks debut and delivered a strong 36-save performance.
Despite the loss, coach Greg Cronin saw positives in his team’s effort.
“I thought we battled hard,” Cronin said. “It was a rough turnaround with travel, but the effort was there. Utah is a skilled team, and they did what they needed to win.”
Husso, acquired from the Detroit Red Wings on February 24, was recalled from AHL San Diego just days before making his first start for Anaheim.
“I think we did a solid job,” Husso said. “It’s great to see the team fighting for each other. When we play that way, good things will come.”

Last Meeting: Ducks Stopped Nashville’s Streak
The last time these two teams faced off, the Ducks played spoiler. Back on January 25, Anaheim snapped Nashville’s five-game winning streak with a 5-2 victory.
- Mason McTavish led the way with two goals.
- Jansen Harkins and Trevor Zegras struck just 62 seconds apart in the second period, shifting the momentum.
McTavish remains Anaheim’s biggest offensive weapon, putting up 11 points (five goals, six assists) in his last 10 games.
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Key Stats & Storylines to Watch
- Nashville’s Defense: The Predators have held opponents to three goals or fewer in each game during their current winning streak.
- Anaheim’s Offensive Benchmark: The Ducks boast a 25-3-3 record when scoring three or more goals.
- Goaltending Battle: Saros continues to be a rock for Nashville, while Husso hopes to prove he can be Anaheim’s answer in net.
- Stamkos’ Streak: Can the veteran continue his red-hot scoring pace?
With Nashville eyeing its fifth straight win and Anaheim desperate to stay in the playoff hunt, this matchup has plenty on the line. Will the Predators keep rolling, or will the Ducks pull off another upset?
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