The Predators wrap up their three game road trip in Arizona facing off against a Coyotes team chasing Nashville in the standings.
It didn't seem likely back in October that a Saturday afternoon hockey game in January between the Nashville Predators and Arizona Coyotes might have playoff consequences, but that could be true today. A resetting Predators team is facing a Coyotes team that hasn't been in playoff contention since beating Nashville in the qualifying round of the 2019-2020 postseason, and both teams want these two points to get closer to a postseason chance.
While an unlikely scenario before the season started, Nashville and Arizona have each found enough success to be potential playoff teams. Barry Trotz's offseason signings of Ryan O'Reilly and Gustav Nyquist have given the Predators a threatening top line that has been difficult for opponents to contain. Former Predator goalie Connor Ingram has earned the starting job in net for the Coyotes and is having a career year. Ingram has a .918 save percentage, fifth best in the league right now.
Today's game location also makes for an interesting storyline between these Central Division teams. Of course, there's been plenty of talk about where Arizona's future home might be, but the team is having plenty of success at Mullett Arena, going 13-9 there this season. January has been a bit tougher on home ice as the Coyotes have gone 1-4, but there is a home ice advantage for Arizona.
The Predators have struggled at times at Bridgestone Arena, but have been a strong road team recently. Nashville has gone 9-2-1 on the road since December 1. They are 1-1 on this road trip losing on Monday to the Vegas Golden Knights but defeating the L.A. Kings on the road Thursday night.
Nashville Keys to the Game
1. Top line production - The Predators will need the top line of Filip Forsberg, Ryan O'Reilly, and Gustav Nyquist to lead the team in scoring. Both O'Reilly and Nyquist scored against the Kings on Thursday night, but keep an eye on Filip Forsberg who seems to find an extra gear when playing against Central Division rivals.
2. Depth contributions - While the Predators will need big games from their top three, the team will also need depth players to step up as well. The Coyotes are getting offensive production up and down their lineup — something that Nashville hasn't gotten consistently. Players like Cole Smith, Tommy Novak, and Phil Tomasino will need strong 200 foot performances today.
3. Stay out of the box - Nashville's penalty kill held the L.A. Kings to just one power play goal on five chances, but the Arizona Coyotes are a top ten power play team. Penalties could cost Nashville the game today. The Predators will need to avoid going to the box and focus on keeping this game at five on five.
How to Watch/Listen
Puck drop for today's game is scheduled for 2:00 pm CT at Mullett Arena. Bally Sports South will have the broadcast, and 102.5 The Game will have the radio call.