Nashville – Alexandre Carrier’s late goal secured a dramatic 3-1 victory for the Nashville Predators over the New York Islanders at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday. Carrier’s slap shot, which deflected off an Islanders defenseman, came with just 7.9 seconds left in the game, breaking the tie and propelling the Predators to victory.
Luke Evangelista and Juuso Parssinen also scored for Nashville, with Parssinen’s goal sealing the win in the final second. Goalie Juuse Saros made 24 saves, contributing to the Predators’ win and improving their recent record to 3-1-0 in their last four games.
The Islanders’ goalie, Ilya Sorokin, made 25 saves in a closely contested match. New York’s Jean-Gabriel Pageau initially gave them the lead in the third period, but Nashville’s late rally turned the tide. Evangelista’s power-play goal tied the game, setting the stage for Carrier’s dramatic winner.
Nashville’s coach Andrew Brunette likened the intensity of the current NHL season to a critical point in a golf tournament, emphasizing the importance of each game at this stage.
The Islanders, while playing a solid road game for most of the match, were ultimately undone by a late turnover that led to Nashville’s go-ahead goal. Coach Lane Lambert and the players expressed disappointment at not being able to secure at least a point from the game.
The victory for the Predators demonstrates their resilience and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially in crucial moments. For the Islanders, the game serves as a reminder of the importance of puck management and playing strong until the final whistle.
Both teams will look to build on this performance as they continue their respective campaigns in the NHL season.
