Nashville Predators: We are heading back to Nashville for Game 7

The Nashville Predators came into Game 6 with their backs against the wall. When the game finished, they handled their business and tied the series.

Is there a more exciting phrase in sports than Game 7 in the NHL playoffs? Trick question, because there is nothing better. After the atrocious performance in Game 5, the Nashville Predators had no choice but to win. The task was difficult, as the prospects of elimination loomed. Facing the NHL’s best home team with the chance to win the series, the odds were not in favor of the Predators.

It didn’t matter. The Predators took an early lead, and extended it every period. Even through tumultuous moments, the Predators stood tall. Their team defense clogged the area around the net and Pekka Rinne denied shot after shot. Kevin Fiala, Austin Watson, and Ryan Johansen created turnovers and poked pucks away from Winnipeg skaters.

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It was a complete team effort. The Predators blocked 19 shots during 5v5 play, with Fiala, Roman Josi, and Ryan Ellis getting three blocks each. Fiala also led the team in takeaways.The Jets were grounded all night. Each time they appeared to take off, the Nashville Predators stopped their attempts to fly.  And, Rinne stopped all 34 shots.

The highlights

It all started early in the first period. Just a minute into the game, Viktor Arvidsson deflected Josi’s shot and tallied the team’s first goal. Initially called off for a high stick, the play was reviewed and the goal counted.

Not long after, the penalty parade began. In the last 11 minutes of the opening period, the Predators were called for three penalties. The Jets’ power play is the best in the NHL, but was outshot 5-4 during the six minutes of the man advantage. Rinne certainly helped.

The first period ended with the Predators leading 1-0.

Winnipeg came out on a mission to start the second, shooting and gaining six high-danger chances. But the Predators responded with quality defense. At least three players filled the area around the net, clogging the passing lanes. After breaking his stick on defense, Filip Forsberg headed to get a replacement. It was perfect timing. As he gained the stick, the puck found him. The rest is history.

The rest of the second period was clean, and the Predators finished ahead 2-0.

Nashville kept working hard throughout the third period. The Jets could not find enough openings to score, while the Forsberg didn’t need much space. Is there ever a goal of his that is not a highlight? This was certainly was filthy.

The Predators finished off the game with an empty-net goal from Arvidsson, handing the Jets their first shutout this postseason.

Three Stars

Filip Forsberg – With two goals and an assist, Forsberg has 15 points on the postseason. His first goal of the game came when the Jets were making a strong push. It took the crowd out of the game.

Pekka Rinne – After a major loss in Game 5, Rinne shutout the most potent offense in the league. He faced 34 shots, saving every one, including 10 high-danger chances.

Viktor Arvidsson – The opening goal may have been a bit lucky, but Arvidsson is the engine of this team. His hard work and gritty attitude sparked the team all night. And, he is not afraid to mix it up.

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Game 7 is on Thursday night from Nashville. Puck drop will be around 8:15 p.m.