Penguins vs. Predators: Game 2 prediction

Who will win Game 2 of the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators? 

Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals was a very exciting game. Despite being held without a shot for well over 30 minutes, the Pittsburgh Penguins scored four goals on Nashville Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne. They got out to a 3-0 lead in the first period, but later squandered it to the Preds. However, Jake Guentzel’s game winning goal and Nick Bonino’s empty net score gave Pittsburgh a 5-3 win in Game 1.

To win Game 2, the Pens must be much better than they were on Monday. Nashville dominated possession and were the better team for the last 40 minutes. Luckily for them, Pittsburgh was just barely good enough in the first 20 minutes to make up for the last two periods. However, they shouldn’t expect to get lucky again.

Despite losing Game 1, the Predators have to feel pretty good about how they played. They were able to execute a comeback from a three goal deficit, showing impressive resolve in doing so. Had it not been for a controversial overturned P.K. Subban goal in the first period, Nashville might have won. But Rinne had a rare off night, and that was enough for Pittsburgh to win. He must be better in Game 2.

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Prediction

The Predators will come out strong in Game 2. They’re confident and they showed in Game 1 that they are a very skilled team. Pittsburgh played on their heels for the last 40 minutes, putting up just four shots on goal after the first period. Nashville, meanwhile, dominated for the last 40 minutes. If this continues in Game 2, expect a different result than Game 1. Rinne usually follows a bad game with a great game, so that’s good for their chances.

Predators 3, Penguins 1