Filip Forsberg’s impressive performance, scoring twice in the third period, propelled the Nashville Predators to a 4-3 win against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. Forsberg’s efforts were crucial in helping the Predators (22-17-1) secure their third win in four games.
Gustav Nyquist continued his point streak, now at eight games, with a goal and an assist, while Ryan O’Reilly contributed with two assists. Goalie Kevin Lankinen made 26 saves, playing a key role in Nashville’s victory.
The Stars (22-11-5), despite goals from Jason Robertson and Jamie Benn, and two assists from Thomas Harley, faced their third consecutive loss. Scott Wedgewood made 18 saves for Dallas. Coach Pete DeBoer acknowledged the limited number of mistakes made but lamented that those errors led to goals.
Forsberg’s first goal gave Nashville a 3-2 lead early in the third period, showcasing his skill with a backhand finish. He then extended the lead with a wraparound goal, displaying his offensive prowess. Nyquist praised Forsberg’s ability to step up when needed, highlighting his two crucial goals.
Robertson managed to reduce the deficit to 4-3 for Dallas, but the Stars couldn’t find the equalizer. Tyler Seguin stressed the importance of defense, stating that the team shouldn’t be conceding four goals and emphasizing the need for collective responsibility.
The Predators established an early lead with Nyquist’s first-period goal, followed by Luke Evangelista extending the lead in the second period. Dallas responded with goals from Seguin and Benn, the latter tying the game on a power play just before the second intermission.
Nashville coach Andrew Brunette saw the win as a positive growth moment for the team, especially after losing momentum in previous games. Dallas’ Robertson noted the team’s improved power-play execution in the second attempt, leading to Benn’s goal.
In milestone achievements, Dallas defenseman Ryan Suter played his 1,400th NHL game, joining a select group of American skaters to reach this mark. Benn’s power-play goal was his 102nd in the NHL, placing him among the top four players in Stars/North Stars history for power-play goals.
Forsberg’s performance was a highlight of the game, marking his eighth 20-goal season in the NHL, a feat achieved by only ten other Swedish-born players. The win for Nashville demonstrates their resilience and ability to close out tight games, while for Dallas, the focus remains on tightening their defensive play and converting opportunities.
