First Period

The Colorado Avalanche entered the game with a strong record of 21-2-7, while the Nashville Predators stood at 11-14-4. The first period saw both teams come out aggressively, with the Avs taking an early lead. Artturi Lehkonen found the back of the net, showcasing his precision with a goal that set the tone for Colorado. The Predators responded quickly, leveling the score as Ryan O'Reilly capitalized on a defensive lapse by Colorado.

Dec 9, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) and defenseman Adam Wilsby (83) blocks the shot of Colorado Avalanche left wing Artturi Lehkonen (62) during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Second Period

As play resumed in the second period, both teams tightened their defenses. Despite numerous attempts from Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, who combined for several shots on goal, neither team managed to break through. The Avs' powerplay unit was active but couldn't convert their opportunities into goals during this frame.

Third Period

In an intense third period, Martin Necas assisted on a crucial goal that put Colorado ahead once more. However, Nashville's Brady Skjei answered back swiftly to tie it up again. Both teams battled fiercely until regulation time expired without further scoring.

Dec 9, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Colorado Avalanche left wing Victor Olofsson (95) and Nashville Predators right wing Michael McCarron (47) battle for the puck during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Overtime and Shootout

The overtime session was marked by high tension as both sides sought to clinch victory. Despite four shots from Colorado during overtime play and stellar saves by Scott Wedgewood throughout regulation and extra time, neither team could secure a win before heading into a shootout.

In the shootout phase of this encounter between these two competitive squads—Colorado Avalanche vs Nashville Predators—the Preds emerged victorious thanks to Juuse Saros' impeccable goaltending performance which included three critical saves against Avs shooters like Ross Colton and Devon Toews.

Dec 9, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews (7) battles Nashville Predators center Steven Stamkos (91) for the puck during the second period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

This game-changing plays Colorado Avalanche vs Nashville Predators highlighted how pivotal moments can sway outcomes dramatically even when evenly matched opponents face off under pressure-packed circumstances such as these seen here tonight at Bridgestone Arena where fans witnessed yet another classic showdown between these fierce rivals!

Looking ahead: Fans can catch their next action-packed matchup when they host Florida Panthers at Ball Arena in Denver on December 11th at 9:30 PM EDT live via ESPN broadcast network coverage! Don't miss out—share your thoughts about this exciting clash today!

NHL - Recap

Seattle Kraken's Powerplay Dominance Sinks Los Angeles Kings at Climate Pledge Arena

Los Angeles Kings' Powerplay Struggles as Seattle Kraken Seize Victory at Climate Pledge Arena

Panthers' Prowess Prevails: Lundell and Bennett Shine Against Mammoth

Calgary Flames Third Period Surge Falls Short Against Detroit Red Wings

Did the Detroit Red Wings' Dynamic Duo Outshine the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome?

Can Chicago Blackhawks' Defense Continue to Silence New York Rangers?

New York Rangers Stifled by Chicago Blackhawks' Defense at United Center

Avalanche's Powerplay Sparks but Predators Prevail in Shootout Showdown

Nashville Predators Edge Out Colorado Avalanche in Shootout Drama

Did the St. Louis Blues' Powerplay Falter Against Boston Bruins at Enterprise Center?

Edmonton Oilers' Late Surge Falls Short as Sabres Prevail in Overtime Drama

Bruins' Third Period Blitz Overwhelms Blues in St. Louis Showdown

Buffalo Sabres Edge Out Edmonton Oilers in Overtime Thriller at Rogers Place

Jets' Scheifele Shines, But Stars Align for Dallas Victory

Dallas Stars Shine in Powerplay Showdown Against Winnipeg Jets

Did the Senators' Powerplay Surge Fall Short Against the Devils?

Did San Jose Sharks' Offense Falter Against Philadelphia Flyers at Xfinity Mobile Arena?

Devils Dance Past Senators: Gritsyuk and Brown Lead the Charge

Did the Vegas Golden Knights' Shootout Struggles at UBS Arena Cost Them Against the New York Islanders?

Ducks Outlast Penguins in Overtime Drama at PPG Paints Arena

Can the Islanders' Shootout Triumph Over Vegas Spark a Winning Streak?