Nashville Predators: Ranking Their Biggest Rivals in Franchise History

3. Anaheim Ducks

Head-to-head record: 76 games, 32-31-(2)-11

Point percentage: .507%

Goal differential: -19

Matchups between these two teams always get dirty no matter where the teams are in the standings. Even if the Ducks are buried in the standings, like this current season, they’re still going to dirty things up with the Predators.

This rivalry from the perspective of a Predators fan is also fueled due to some not so likeable players that have played for the Ducks over years. Players like Corey Perry and Ryan Kesler come to mind first.

But three heated playoff meetings also fueled this rivalry, beginning in 2011 when the Predators made franchise history to win their first playoff series. They eliminated the Ducks in six games, and I remember it like it was yesterday.

The Predators were finally over the hump after being eliminated in the first round so many times. Key players in that playoff run were Pekka Rinne, Joel Ward, David Legwand and Mike Fisher.

In 2016 the Predators would draw the Ducks in the first round, and eliminate the Ducks once again. Two playoff series wins, and both against the Ducks. This one went seven games and was as intense of a playoff series I had seen from the Predators in their history.

And then we have the moment none of us will ever forget when the Predators defeated the Ducks to go to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017.

They may not be division rivals, but this is a rivalry that won’t die easily. It’s one I circle on the schedule to attend or be tuned into because there’s usually always some type of fireworks.