Detroit Red Wings
It is hard to justify having a rivalry with a team from a different conference, considering they only play twice a year. However, in consideration of the history, the Detroit Red Wings deserve a spot on the list. It has been four years since the Red Wings left the Central Division, but the remnants of the past still ream large every time these two teams meet up.
Ever since the Nashville Predators joined the NHL there was always that one team that acted as the thorn in their side. Every time Nashville came close to making some noise in the division, Detroit was always there to knock them back down. There were plenty of chances for Nashville to win the central, only to come in second to Detroit by a few points. It seemed as if Nashville would always be the little brother to Detroit. Then, 2012 happened.
Nashville finished ahead of Detroit in the division for the first time in franchise history. They would then face off in the first round of the playoffs. Prior to this meeting, Nashville and Detroit had faced each other in the playoffs twice. The Red Wings got the upper hand on both occasions, but 2012 would not follow suit. Nashville won the series 4-1, and finally came out on top in the rivalry.
Nashville and Detroit played one more season in the same division, before realignment moved the Red Wings to the Eastern Conference. The rivalry might not be as big as it used to be, but Nashville still got the last laugh.