NASHVILLE — The Nashville Predators continued their impressive form with a 3-1 win over the Washington Capitals at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, led by goaltender Juuse Saros’s 21 saves. The Predators’ victory marked their fourth consecutive win and their seventh in the last eight games.
Colton Sissons, Philip Tomasino, and Yakov Trenin scored the crucial goals for Nashville (18-13-0), who have been on a strong run, including a recent 6-5 overtime win against the Carolina Hurricanes. The team has maintained a high level of performance, going 13-3-0 in their last 16 games.
Ryan McDonagh, Nashville’s defenseman, emphasized the team’s focus on fine-tuning their game and setting a strong pace early in matches. The Predators have been successful in creating a difficult environment for their opponents to play in.
The Capitals (14-9-4), with goalie Charlie Lindgren making 20 saves, saw their four-game point streak come to an end. Washington’s T.J. Oshie acknowledged the team’s struggles with puck possession and commended the Predators for their work ethic and execution.
Sissons opened the scoring for the Predators in the first period, redirecting a shot from Roman Josi. “We’re finding ways to win,” Sissons said, highlighting the team’s improvements in penalty killing and power play, as well as contributions from various players.
Oshie tied the game for the Capitals in the second period on a power play, but Tomasino quickly restored Nashville’s lead with a skillful breakaway goal. Trenin’s third-period goal further extended the Predators’ lead, showcasing their offensive depth.
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery noted his team’s difficulty in puck handling and executing offensive plays, which contributed to their loss.
- Saros achieved an NHL career high with his sixth consecutive win.
- Predators forward Filip Forsberg contributed with an assist and has been in good form, with nine points in his last eight games.
- Nashville’s Kiefer Sherwood missed the game due to an upper-body injury.
- Capitals forward Evgeny Kuznetsov, returning from illness, won a high percentage of face-offs but couldn’t help turn the tide for Washington.
- Capitals star Alex Ovechkin had six shots on goal but continued his 12-game goal drought, the longest of his career.
The Predators will look to maintain their winning momentum, while the Capitals aim to regroup and snap their recent skid in their upcoming fixtures.
