Predators Look to Keep Streak Alive in Rematch with Sharks
The Nashville Predators, fueled by a wild 7-5 comeback win on Tuesday, are back to face the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night, aiming to extend their season-best four-game winning streak.
Currently 10 points out of a playoff spot with 36 games left, the Predators are hoping to make a late-season push. Their first-ever four-goal comeback against San Jose has given the team a massive morale boost.
“We’ve been playing some good hockey lately, and this win gives us more belief,” said defenseman Nick Blankenburg, whose game-winning goal on Tuesday capped the rally.
Momentum Building for Nashville
After a shaky start to the season, Nashville seems to be hitting its stride. Big-name additions like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei are finally clicking. Marchessault, now on a nine-game point streak, played a pivotal role on Tuesday with a goal and three assists.
“This last month has been a lot better for us,” Marchessault said. “We’ve been competitive, but now we’re finding ways to win.”
Sharks Seek Redemption
For San Jose, Tuesday’s game was another tough pill to swallow. After jumping to a 5-1 lead midway through, they couldn’t hold off Nashville’s surge.
“It’s embarrassing,” said Mikael Granlund, who scored twice. “We started strong but couldn’t keep it together.”
The Sharks, who sit at the bottom of the NHL standings, are on a four-game skid and have only one win in their last eight games. The team’s struggles date back even further, with just four wins in their last 22 contests.
“We’re all extremely frustrated,” said coach Ryan Warsofsky. “We need to regroup and be ready for Thursday.”
Roster Moves and Updates
San Jose placed Nico Sturm on injured reserve and traded minor league forward Justin Bailey to Anaheim for Pavol Regenda. The Sharks also claimed forward Walker Duehr off waivers from Calgary, and he might make his debut on Thursday.
The Stakes
The Predators have won 11 straight games against the Sharks, including 13 of the last 14 matchups. While Nashville is building momentum, San Jose will look to snap their streak and salvage some pride in front of their home crowd.
Will Nashville keep rolling, or can San Jose turn the tide? All eyes are on the rematch.