Taking a look back at the last two seasons, the Preds worked things out in overtime, with no OT losses in either season, not including shootout losses. In fact, the Preds only went to a shootout five times in the 2023–24 season. OT seemed to be a chance to close out a game in the previous two seasons; now it feels like the team is holding its breath. So, what happened? How did this team go from working things out and forcing shootouts to losing in OT twice in the first five games of the season?
Last night’s OT loss to the Montreal Canadiens marks the second overtime loss of the season for the Nashville Predators. The team seemed to let Cole Caufield get away from them, as Caufield not only tied the game but also won it in OT.
While two OT losses could seem inconsequential, they appear to be part of a bigger picture. Given that these losses came in the first five games of the season, this is something the Preds need to focus on to shift the outlook for the rest of the season.
In these two OT losses, it feels obvious that passivity is at play. Coach Andrew Brunette himself has remarked on the passive play the team is exhibiting. Watching the games, it’s clear that players aren’t putting their all into puck battles. The repeated loss of the puck is a major problem, especially when the team struggles to complete opportunities that are essentially handed to them. While the team has faced pressure during opportunities, conversion remains a problem with or without this pressure.
Of course, there’s always the chance that players are simply tired. Overtime is not easy, especially after 60 minutes of play. That being said, Saros is out there the full 60 minutes and does not look especially tired during OT. There is also a struggle in switching from 5-on-5 to 3-on-3, particularly with the loss of potential defenders. In OT, the defense has not been stepping up, leaving Saros vulnerable.
Whether it’s tired legs, hesitation in puck battles, or adjusting to 3-on-3, the team hasn’t found its rhythm in OT yet. It’s early in the season, but these moments can shape the team’s confidence going forward. Luckily, the team realizes this is an issue and seems to be working to resolve it.