Ducks vs. Predators: Game 6 prediction

Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals could be the last game of the series. Can the Nashville Predators finish off the Anaheim Ducks? 

The Nashville Predators have never been to a Stanley Cup Final. Of course, before this season, they had never even been to a Western Conference Final. Up 3-2 in their series against the Anaheim Ducks, Nashville has a chance to clinch a spot in the Stanley Cup Final at Bridgestone Arena on Monday.

Even without star center Ryan Johansen and captain Mike Fisher, the Predators managed to find a way to win Game 5. They were relentless on offense, finally cashing in with three goals in the final 40 minutes, including two third period goals. Pekka Rinne allowed an early goal, but was otherwise stellar in net for Nashville. The Predators are very good at home, but it’s worth noting Anaheim has given them their only loss at home during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

On the other side of the ice, the Ducks find themselves in a must win scenario. They are no strangers to them, having beaten the Edmonton Oilers twice on the road in the second round, but Anaheim might have to do it without goaltender John Gibson. He had to leave Game 5 after the first period with an injury, but he hopes to play in Game 6. However, even if Gibson plays, he might not be 100 percent. Anaheim will have to get pucks past Rinne to win on Monday night. The best way for them to do so is to shoot high blocker side. That’s worked well for them so far.

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Prediction

Nashville has a ton of momentum right now. They know they can win even without Johansen. Expect them to clinch their first ever Stanley Cup Final appearance on Monday night.

Predators 3, Ducks 2 (OT)