Home context · Nashville Predators
Away context · Anaheim Ducks
As the Nashville Predators prepare to host the Anaheim Ducks on April 16, 2026, both teams find themselves in crucial positions with the regular season winding down, highlighted by strikingly different recent forms. The Predators come in strong, sporting a 3-1-1 record over their last five games, bolstered by standout performances from Filip Forsberg, who has netted three goals, and Ryan O'Reilly, who has tallied five assists, pushing their overall record to 38-32-10 for 86 points. In stark contrast, the Ducks have struggled of late with a record of 1-3-1, even as Leo Carlsson matches Forsberg with three goals in this stretch, contributing to their 42-win season and 90 points. Historically, the Predators have faced challenges against the Ducks, having won just once in their last five encounters, making this matchup a critical opportunity for Nashville to turn the tide at home.
Predators Goals
Ducks Goals
| Home | Away | |
|---|---|---|
| Teams | Predators | Ducks |
| Goals | 4 | 5 |
| Shots | 21 | 40 |
| Power Play Goals | 2 | 1 |
| Penalty Minutes | 12 | 6 |
| Hits | 10 | 16 |
Predators Fall to Ducks 5-4 in Thrilling Finale
The Anaheim Ducks edged out the Nashville Predators in a nail-biting game that concluded with a score of 5-4. The Ducks pulled ahead in the third period and held on to secure the victory, showcasing their resilience despite being down earlier in the game.
Big Picture
Both teams entered this game with contrasting momentum. The Predators were riding a positive wave with a recent 3-1-1 record, while the Ducks had struggled with a 1-3-1 record leading up to this matchup. However, the Ducks managed to exploit their offensive strengths, ultimately combining for five goals and outshooting the Predators 40-21.
Turning Point
The game saw significant momentum shifts, particularly throughout the second and third periods. After the Predators took a 4-3 lead with goals from Filip Forsberg and Steven Stamkos in quick succession, it looked like Nashville might secure the win at home. However, a goal from Tristan Luneau 4:17 into the third period equalized the score. With just over two minutes left in the game, Troy Terry scored the winning goal for the Ducks, shifting the momentum firmly in their favor and sealing the game.
Standout Performances
The nighttime spotlight was especially bright on Ducks forward Mikael Granlund, who notched crucial assists on both the second and third goals for Anaheim. Leo Carlsson contributed with an assist on the game-winner, continuing to show promise as he remains a key player for the Ducks.
For the Predators, both Steven Stamkos and Filip Forsberg shone brightly. Forsberg scored two goals, providing much of the offensive flair for Nashville. Stamkos matched him with two goals of his own, proving tough to handle for the Ducks' defense.
What It Means
This game was critical for both teams as the regular season approaches its conclusion. The Ducks moved to a more comfortable 43-30-10, further solidifying their playoff position. In contrast, the Predators, at 38-33-10, find themselves needing to regroup quickly to stay in the playoff race.
Despite a valiant effort and strong individual performances, Nashville's inability to hold onto their lead highlights areas for improvement as they strive for a postseason berth. Meanwhile, with this win, the Ducks regain confidence heading into their remaining games, showing that they can compete under pressure.