Something’s got to give in matchup between streaking Ducks, Predators
By C.L. Kohuss
In what should be a tough test for both clubs, the Anaheim Ducks will look to put an end to the Nashville Predators’ nine-game winning streak, while continuing their own climb toward first in the Pacific Division.
The Anaheim Ducks and Nashville Predators will drop the puck at 8 p.m. ET in Nashville.
Anaheim is currently on a three-game winning streak, including a 4-0 blank fest over the Washington Capitals on Tuesday.
They have won seven of their last nine in their quest to not only pull away from the San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings (who sit third and fourth in the Pacific, respectively), but to catch a Vegas Golden Knights team that has struggled lately.
The Golden Knights have lost five of their last eight, with one of those losses being to the Ducks. They still sit nine points up on second place.
The Predators, meanwhile, have been cruising. They’re coming off of their own shutout, a 2-0 win over the Dallas Stars on Tuesday night. That win upped their streak to nine games, with most of those coming on the road. This will be their second contest of a four-game homestand.
Defenseman Roman Josi of Nashville did not play Tuesday night and could remain out of this contest, as well. Per CBS Sports, he’s been dealing with an upper-body injury that’s kept him off the ice the last few games.
In his absence, Ryan Ellis and P.K. Subban have both stepped up. They’ve combined for seven points in the last three battles.
On the opposite end, Anaheim Ducks forward Rickard Rakell will try to extend his goal streak to five games. He has 28 goals and a career-best 56 points on the season.
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If goaltender Pekka Rinne is to start tonight for Smashville, he will be going for an astounding 18th win in his last 20. Look for this contest to be a physical battle and an absolute test for both teams, as each try to keep up the winning ways.