Nashville Predators vs. Seattle Kraken: A Crucial Match-Up at Bridgestone Arena
The Nashville Predators (22-32-7, 51 points) welcome the Seattle Kraken (26-32-4, 56 points) to Bridgestone Arena on Thursday. Both teams are currently in seventh place in their respective divisions and are outside the playoff picture in the Western Conference, making this game a pivotal one for both franchises. The Predators are riding a wave of momentum following a resounding 6-3 victory over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday, where key players like Ryan O’Reilly and Steven Stamkos shone with three-point performances. However, the team has seen some significant changes with the recent trades orchestrated by General Manager Barry Trotz.
Recent Trades and Roster Adjustments
Since their win against the Bruins, the Predators have made notable moves to reshape their lineup. Forward Tommy Novak and defenseman Luke Schenn were traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Michael Bunting and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Bunting, currently on injured reserve after undergoing an appendectomy, is expected to join the Predators’ roster next week. Meanwhile, the Kraken also made a significant trade on Wednesday, sending forwards Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde, along with defenseman Kyle Aucoin and a fifth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, to the Tampa Bay Lightning. In return, Seattle received Michael Eyssimont, a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and conditional first-round picks in 2026 and 2027. These trades highlight the teams’ strategic decisions as they aim to strengthen their rosters and potentially make a late-season playoff push.
How the Predators Lined Up Against the Kraken
For the game against the Kraken, the Predators’ lineup was as follows:
- Stamkos-O’Reilly-Evangelista
- Forsberg-Sissons-Marchessault
- Jankowski-Svechkov-Smith
- Lucchini-McCarron-Wiesblatt
On the backend, the Predators had:
- Skjei-Blankenburg
- Del Gaizo-Stastney
- Englund-Barron
In net, Juuse Saros was between the pipes. Additionally, the Predators claimed forward Jakub Vrana (from the Washington Capitals) and defenseman Jordan Oesterle (from the Boston Bruins) off waivers on Thursday afternoon. Although both players were added to the roster, neither suited up for the game against the Kraken. The team also had players on injured reserve, including Mattias Lauzon, Connor Wilsby, Thomas L’Heureux, and Roman Josi, which has impacted their lineup and depth.
Noteworthy Players and Milestones
Juuse Saros, the Predators’ goaltender, has been a standout this season, particularly in high-pressure situations. Entering play on Thursday, Saros had 285 high-danger saves, the second most among all goaltenders, trailing only Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers, who has 291. This stat underscores Saros’s importance to the team and his ability to make crucial stops when the game is on the line.
Another significant milestone in the Predators’ camp is the 700th career NHL game for forward Jonathan Marchessault. Marchessault, known for his speed and scoring ability, has been a consistent performer and a valuable asset to the Predators. His experience and leadership on the ice are crucial as the team navigates through this challenging season. The Predators will look to Marchessault to continue his strong play and potentially make an impact in this crucial game against the Kraken.
Game Highlights: First Period
The game began with the Kraken asserting their presence in the offensive zone. Just 32 seconds into the first period, Adam Larsson finished a rebound from a Vince Dunn shot, slotting it home to give Seattle an early 1-0 lead. This fast start by the Kraken put the Predators on their heels, but Nashville quickly regrouped and took control of the game. The Predators dominated possession and created numerous scoring chances, culminating in a well-deserved equalizer.
Filip Forsberg, a veteran forward and one of the Predators’ top offensive threats, capitalized on a turnover by Dunn at the 7:15 mark. Forsberg’s precise shot found the back of the net, sliding past Joey Daccord and tying the game at 1-1. Forsberg’s goal was a testament to the team’s resilience and their ability to respond to adversity. The Predators’ dominant play continued throughout the period, and they outshot the Kraken significantly, setting the tone for a competitive game.
The Predators’ Resilient Performance
After falling behind early, the Predators displayed remarkable resilience and determination. Their aggressive forechecking and strong defensive structure allowed them to control play for much of the first period. The forwards, led by the dynamic duo of Stamkos and O’Reilly, were relentless in their pursuit of the puck, creating multiple scoring opportunities. The defense, anchored by the likes of Skjei and Blankenburg, was solid, limiting high-quality chances from the Kraken and providing Saros with a manageable workload.
Filip Forsberg’s goal was a crucial moment, not only because it leveled the score but also because it boosted the team’s morale. The Predators’ ability to respond quickly to the Kraken’s early goal is a positive sign, indicating that they are capable of withstanding pressure and mounting a comeback when needed. The team’s chemistry and work ethic were evident, with players from all lines contributing to the offensive and defensive efforts. As the game progresses, the Predators will need to maintain this level of intensity and coordination to secure a crucial victory.
Looking Ahead: The Importance of Every Game
With both teams vying for a playoff spot, every game is essential. The Predators, despite their record, have shown flashes of brilliance and potential this season. Their recent win over the Bruins and the strong start against the Kraken are encouraging signs that the team is capable of competing with the league’s best. However, consistency has been a challenge, and the trades made by Trotz indicate a willingness to address weaknesses and bolster the roster.
The Kraken, with their own set of trades, are also positioning themselves for a potential playoff run. The acquisition of Michael Eyssimont and the draft picks provide Seattle with both immediate and long-term benefits. For the Predators, the focus will be on continuing their strong play, particularly with key players like Forsberg, Stamkos, and O’Reilly leading the charge. The team’s fans will be watching closely, hoping that this game marks a turning point in their season and that they can capitalize on the recent momentum to secure more wins and improve their standings in the Western Conference.
