Predators' Comeback vs Reigning Cup Champs Indicative of Playoff Potential
The Predators get another two points and continue to prove they have what it takes come playoff time.
Predators' Comeback vs Reigning Cup Champs Indicative of Playoff PotentialThe Nashville Predators continue to impress in every facet of the game as they have extended their franchise-long point streak to 18 games (16-0-2). This feat didn't come easy though as they had to erase 3-0 and 4-1 deficits to the Vegas Golden Knights, the reigning Stanley Cup champions.
This game might have seemed lost early, but the Predators have shown time and time again this season that there is a ton of fight in them and charged back in the third period to tie the game and win it in overtime by a score of 5-4. Bad teams or teams that haven't figured it out don't play like that when down by multiple goals down the stretch of a season in a playoff chase.
The Predators were counted out just over a month ago and now look like a team nobody will want to face in the first round of the playoffs. Nashville's effort and team play can't be denied and if there is criticism towards the group for not having enough skill, then explain 16 wins and 34 of a possible 36 points in an 18-game span.
The Predators can not only keep up with anyone they may cross in the playoffs, their dominance has shown that they are a real threat for any postseason opponent. I don't want to get ahead of myself here, but playoffs are a whole new season and any of the 16 teams that make it to the dance have an equal shot at winning the Stanley Cup or going deep. Take the 2019 St. Louis Blues, the 2020 Montreal Canadiens, or the 2023 Florida Panthers as recent examples. I'm not saying the Predators are the same as those teams exactly, but none of them were expected to win or get through the teams that they did in the playoffs.
The Predators also didn't peak too early. Their season turnaround came at a time that gave management the confidence to bolster the lineup where it needed help and show the team that they can compete and win. The Predators are a real threat and this would be quite a story if the team hoisted their first Stanley Cup after this run.
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