Penguins vs. Predators: Game 4 prediction

After Game 3, the Nashville Predators are trying to tie the Stanley Cup Finals at two games a piece against the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 4.

Going into Game 3, the Nashville Predators needed to take advantage of home ice. They did precisely that with a 5-1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. Trailing their opponents 2-1, the Predators will look to carry over their momentum from Game 3’s blowout win to tie the series. Game 4 will be held at Bridgestone Arena and starts at 8:00 p.m. ET.

The Predators overcame an early goal by Jake Guentzel by scoring the next five goals. Nashville took advantage of many mistakes by Pittsburgh to gain control of the series. They’re still under pressure to win Game 4 to tie the series at two games a piece, but at least now they have some momentum and confidence. Pekka Rinne rebounded from a terrible first two games of the series. The Nashville crowd gave the team a lot of energy in Game 3. They’ll look to do the same on Monday night.

On the other side of the ice, Pittsburgh has to play a much cleaner game in Game 4. They got frustrated and let it show on the ice. Nashville made them pay for it. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin will likely bounce back from a terrible Game 3. Rookie goaltender Matt Murray is undefeated after a loss in his brief postseason career. They didn’t generate rush attempts like they did in the first two games. That must change in Game 4.

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Prediction

The Predators sent a message to Pittsburgh in Game 3. Now the Pens must respond by playing better. They’ll have a very hostile crowd to deal with, as the Nashville fans are pumped up about their team. Pittsburgh hasn’t played a complete game yet in this series, which doesn’t bode well for their chances.

Predators 4, Penguins 2