Predators Face Multitude of Tests Against Avalanche
The Predators need a bounce-back against a very tough opponent.
Predators Face Multitude of Tests Against AvalancheThe Nashville Predators' 18-game point streak was very fun to experience, but it wasn't going to last forever. It is better it ended now than the main focus being on that heading into the postseason. With the team visiting the Colorado Avalanche today, there are bigger things the Predators need to be focused on.
The Avalanche have been nearly as hot as any team as of late, including the Predators. Colorado is 9-1-1 in their past 11 games and no team is as dangerous as they are on home ice with a record of 28-7-1. This is what the Predators, coming off a tough loss to a bottom-feeder, have to deal with.
The Avalanche are a likely first-round matchup, and if the Predators avoid them in Round 1, then they could very well meet in the second round. While the Avalanche are definitely a tough test and are proven in the playoffs, Nashville does have the upper hand during the regular season thus far, going 2-0-0 and winning both in regulation.
This doesn't negate the fact that Nathan MacKinnon has been the most dangerous player on home ice this season as his 35-game point streak at home was just controversially ended. He will be looking to get back on the scoresheet at home and the Avalanche are fighting for a first place spot in the Central Division.
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Colorado has a better shot at coming first in that division with more motivation to not face either the Dallas Stars or Winnipeg Jets in the first round than the Predators have at catching any of the three.
In the end, the Predators have been lights out and had one blunder. This should be a very good and challenging game for both sides and the Predators will have to bring their all in order to come out on top.