The Nashville Predators ran their recent record to 5-1-1 by jumping out to an early lead on the Anaheim Ducks and holding on for a 5-2 win to launch their current road trip.
Colin Wilson got things rolling with two goals in the first period, followed by scores by Mike Fisher and Patric Hornqvist. The Ducks brought it back within a two-goal gap on a couple occasions, but Nashville was able to answer each time and keep them at bay, despite the Ducks out-shooting the Predators 16-7 in the second period.
Fisher (2G, 1A) Hornqvist (1G 2A) and Matt Cullen (3A) each enjoyed three-point night for the Preds.
Next up, the Predators (34-32-11) head north to face the San Jose Sharks tomorrow night.
Random Observations
- Apparently the extra days off helped the Preds, because they showed some real jump, especially in the early going.
- Hornqvist’s goal ties him with Jason Arnott for 5th all-time on the Predators’ list for even-strength goals (67).
- the big news for the Ducks was that Frederik Andersen, who relieved starter Jonas Hiller, left the game with an upper body injury, a development which could impact their goaltending depth heading into the playoffs.
- it was a relief to see Pekka Rinne enjoy a solid game, after having been roughed up in most of his recent outings.
- Fisher hit the 20-goal mark on the season, joining Craig Smith and Shea Weber. This is the 6th 20-goal season of his career.
Boxscore – Game Summary – Event Summary – Fancy Stats
Roll the video highlights…
Who was your Predator of the Game?
| Matt Cullen | 6 |
| Mike Fisher | 26 |
| Patric Hornqvist | 14 |
| Pekka Rinne | 11 |
| Colin Wilson | 87 |