The Nashville Predators beat the Carolina Hurricanes 4–1, taking full control of the home game from start to finish. After opening up a 1–0 lead in the first period, Nashville remained the dominant side throughout and added two more goals in the final frame. Carolina, the reigning Stanley Cup champions, could only manage a single goal in reply.
Predators take the lead in the first period
Nicklaus (Nick) Perbix opened the scoring for Nashville. The defenceman found the back of the net in the 12th minute, converting a pass from Filip Forsberg to make it 1–0. The Predators carried that lead into the first intermission, with Forsberg already making his presence felt as a key offensive force early on.
Josi and Blake define the middle frame
Roman Josi extended the lead at the start of the second period. The Predators captain lit the lamp after an assist from Filip Forsberg to put Nashville up 2–0. Carolina responded through Jackson Blake, who cut the deficit with helpers from Shayne Gostisbehere and Logan Stankoven. The second period ended level at 1–1 on the period scoreboard, though Nashville maintained their overall advantage.
For Shane Wright, the game also marked his debut in a Predators sweater. Nashville had acquired the centre from the Seattle Kraken as recently as November 1st. Head coach Andrew Brunette had identified Carolina as one of the best teams in the league ahead of the matchup.
Nashville seals the win in the third period
In the third period, Adam Edström restored the two-goal cushion. Roman Josi fired the shot and Edström redirected the puck in front of the net, with Ross Colton also involved in the sequence. Then, in the 19th minute, Ross Colton delivered the final blow, scoring into the empty net with assists from Brady Skjei and Jack Drury to complete the 4–1 scoreline.
Nashville outscored Carolina 2–0 in the third period and saw the game out without conceding another goal. The Predators also closed out a five-game homestand on a high note with a prestigious victory. The game was played as part of Hockey Fights Cancer Night.
