Can the Predators Claw Back After a Fiery Encounter with the Flames?
The Nashville Predators, with a record of 18-20, faced off against the Calgary Flames, standing at 20-18. In a game that saw an abundance of goals, the final score settled at 6-3 in favor of the visiting team.
At Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, fans witnessed an intense matchup where the Calgary Flames demonstrated their offensive capabilities early on by scoring four goals in the first period. The Predators responded with two goals but were unable to match their opponent's pace. The Flames' shooting percentage was impressive throughout the game, finishing at fifteen percent as they capitalized on their opportunities and scored six times from thirty-nine shots.
The home team's effort was evident as they amassed twenty-six hits and nineteen takeaways during play. Despite these efforts and winning three out of seven faceoffs overall, it wasn't enough to overcome their rivals. The Predators' shooters managed to put thirty-two shots on goal but found success only three times, reflecting a nine percent shooting accuracy.
One notable aspect for Nashville was their penalty kill performance; they successfully defended all but one of Calgary's four powerplay chances. However, this defensive resilience did not translate into offensive production during powerplays as they failed to score from any such opportunity.
Goaltending played a crucial role for both teams; while both goalies faced numerous shots – thirty-nine for Nashville's goalie and thirty-two for Calgary's – it was ultimately Calgary’s netminder who emerged victorious with twenty-nine saves compared to his counterpart’s thirty-three saves.
As fans look ahead after this tough loss at home, attention turns toward redemption for the Predators. Their next challenge will be away against Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center in Dallas on January 7th at 7:00 PM Central Time. Fans can catch this encounter live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or tune into BSSW channel 676 if located within Dallas or BSSO channel 646-1 for those following from Nashville.