Opinion
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Bridgestone Arena Showdown: Nashville Predators Face Los Angeles Kings

As the Nashville Predators gear up to host the Los Angeles Kings at Bridgestone Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The Predators have shown a mixed bag of performances in their recent outings, and this game presents an opportunity for them to assert dominance on home ice.


Jan 21, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators center Matt Duchene (95) celebrates after a goal during the third period against the Los Angeles Kings at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the Dallas Stars on December 23, the Predators fell short by just one point, ending the game with a score of 2-3. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways from their performance. The team's powerplay unit managed to convert once out of two opportunities, showcasing a success rate that could be pivotal against LA. However, faceoff win percentage stood at a concerning 42 percent – an area that will require immediate attention if they are to control the game's tempo against the Kings.


The previous victory over Philadelphia Flyers on December 22 was more reflective of what this Nashville team is capable of when firing on all cylinders. Scoring four goals and securing a win percentage above fifty in faceoffs demonstrated their ability to dominate both ends of the ice. Their shorthanded unit also made significant contributions by netting one goal and maintaining an impressive save percentage.


Jan 21, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators left wing Cole Smith (36) and center Cody Glass (8) celebrate after a win against the Los Angeles Kings at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for NSH; they suffered defensively during their matchup against Vancouver Canucks on December 20 where they conceded five goals while only scoring two themselves. This highlighted some defensive frailties which could be exploited by LA if not addressed promptly.


The upcoming game is not just about bouncing back but also about establishing consistency for NSH. With home advantage and fan support behind them, it's crucial that they tighten up defensively while continuing to leverage their special teams' prowess as seen in recent games.


Jan 21, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators defenseman Dante Fabbro (57) passes the puck in the final minute of the first period against the Los Angeles Kings at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Fans should expect an intense battle as both teams vie for supremacy at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators have shown glimpses of brilliance but need to deliver a full sixty-minute effort if they hope to emerge victorious against a formidable Kings squad.


Mark your calendars for February 1st – puck drop is scheduled for 6:30 PM CT at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Fans can catch all the action live on TNT channel 245 or stream it via Max internet broadcast or BSW TV channel 692 for those following from away markets.

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