Nashville Predators: Four takeaways from Game 1 versus Avalanche

NASHVILLE, TN – APRIL 12: Filip Forsberg #9 of the Nashville Predators reacts after scoring a goal against the Colorado Avalanche during the third period of a 5-2 Predators victory in Game One of the Western Conference First Round during the 2018 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bridgestone Arena on April 12, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

Shining Stars

Two players will receive most of the credit for the Nashville Predators’ win. And, of course, we expect this type of play out of them, game in and game out. Still, they deserve the praise.

Filip Forsberg took over the game in the third period. With two goals in the games final 20 minutes, Forsberg’s energy and tenacity pushed the Predators to victory. The team fed off what Forsberg was able to do, and they shut down the Avalanche in the final 20 minutes. Of course, the crowd rather enjoyed his play as well.

Truly, the game rested on the back of Pekka Rinne. On several occasions, the Avalanche broke away from the Predators defense, gaining quality scoring chances. Rinne denied them time after time. On the game, Colorado had 25 scoring chances and 8 high-danger opportunities. They constantly found gaps in the Predators defense, especially in the slot. If it were not for Rinne’s continued top-level play, the Predators would have lost the game.