Opinion
3 min read

Ice Titans Clash at Bridgestone: Predators to Face Devils in Mid-February Showdown

As the Nashville Predators gear up to host the New Jersey Devils at Bridgestone Arena, fans are eager for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Predators have been showing signs of a team that's on the cusp of breaking through, and this game could very well be a testament to their resilience and skill.


Jan 26, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators center Ryan Johansen (92) handles the puck as he is pressured by New Jersey Devils defenseman Ryan Graves (33) during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent matchup against the Dallas Stars on December 23rd, despite falling short with a scoreline of 2-3, there were flashes of brilliance from the Predators. Their powerplay unit managed to convert once out of two opportunities, boasting a success rate of 50 percent. This is an area where they've shown consistent strength and could prove pivotal against the Devils.


The physicality brought by Nashville was evident as they racked up 32 hits in that game. They'll need that same level of intensity if they hope to disrupt a skilled New Jersey squad. However, one area where NSH will need improvement is faceoffs; winning only 42 percent against Dallas won't cut it against NJ's centers.


Jan 26, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier (13) talks with referee Carter Sandlak (47) after a penalty call during the first period against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back further at their performance on December 22nd in Philadelphia reveals more about NSH's potential. They emerged victorious with four goals scored while allowing only two against them – showcasing both offensive prowess and defensive solidity.


One standout aspect for NSH has been their shorthanded play. Scoring a shorthanded goal while also maintaining perfect penalty killing stats during that game speaks volumes about their strategic play under pressure.


Jan 26, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators left wing Filip Forsberg (9) celebrates after a goal against New Jersey Devils goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood (not pictured) during the third period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for Nashville; facing Vancouver Canucks on December 20th exposed some weaknesses as they succumbed with two goals to Vancouver’s five. The Canucks dominated faceoffs with a win percentage of 55 compared to Nashville’s 45 percent and outshot them significantly (35 shots for Vancouver versus NSH's 28). To succeed in the upcoming game, these areas must be addressed.


The Devils will not make things easy – they're known for their speed and skillful playmaking which can catch any team off guard if not properly contained. But if NSH can leverage its special teams' performance effectively while tightening up defensively during even-strength play, there’s every reason to believe they can secure victory on home ice.


Fans should mark their calendars for February 14th when these two teams collide at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville at what will be an unmissable Valentine's Day duel starting at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (7:00 PM Central). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live on ESPN+ nationally or tune into BSSO channel number 646-1 or MSG channel number 634 depending on your locale.

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