Opinion
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Can the Predators Tame the Kings at Crypto.com Arena?

The Nashville Predators are gearing up for a challenging encounter against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. The upcoming game promises to be an intriguing matchup, but based on recent performances, there are concerns that need to be addressed by the Predators.


Jan 21, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) makes a save at the side of the net during the first period against the Los Angeles Kings at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Vegas Golden Knights on January 15, Nashville struggled significantly. They managed only one goal from 35 shots, translating to a meager shooting percentage of three percent. Their faceoff win percentage was also low at 37 percent, and they gave away five times while taking ten takeaways. The powerplay opportunities were squandered as well; despite having four chances, they failed to convert any into goals.


Defensively, things weren't much better for NSH. They allowed four goals and had a minus-15 plus/minus rating which is indicative of their struggles on both ends of the ice. Goaltending was one bright spot with a save percentage of 100 percent but still resulted in a loss due to insufficient offensive support.


However, looking back further provides some hope for NSH fans. In their January 14 game against the New York Islanders at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, they showed resilience by scoring all three points in the third period after two scoreless periods. This comeback victory showcased their ability to capitalize under pressure with an improved shooting percentage of eleven percent and winning goal true grit.


Their most impressive recent performance came during their visit to Dallas Stars on January 13 where they erupted offensively with six goals from 38 shots – an impressive sixteen percent shooting accuracy – and secured two empty-net goals sealing a dominant win.


As NSH prepares for LA Kings' challenge, it's clear that consistency is key; they have demonstrated both ends of performance spectrum within days of each other. The question remains: which version will show up in Los Angeles?


Fans should expect NSH's coaching staff to emphasize converting powerplay opportunities and improving faceoff percentages as these areas have been lacking recently yet proved crucial in past victories.


The scheduled clash between Nashville Predators and Los Angeles Kings is set for January 19th at Crypto.com Arena with puck drop slated for 10:00 PM Eastern Time (7:00 PM local time). Fans can catch all action live nationally via ESPN+ or Hulu streaming services ensuring not miss moment this pivotal match-up unfolds.

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