Winnipeg Jets 5, Nashville Predators 0: 1st Period Flop Dooms Preds

The Nashville Predators gave up goals early and often tonight in Winnipeg, falling behind 4-0 in the first period as Carter Hutton got chased from the net and Marek Mazanec made his NHL debut. Despite firing 41 shots on goal and getting numerous power play opportunities, the Predators couldn't muster a goal and fell 5-0, putting a halt to their two-game winning streak.

Every team has a few nights like this along the 82-game season, but that doesn't make them any more palatable to watch. The loss drops Nashville's record to 8-6-2 as they head east to wrap up their road trip with games against the Devils, Islanders and Penguins.

Random Observations

• That 4-0 first period deficit was truly a team-wide effort. You had a perfect storm of blown defensive zone coverage, rebounds left hanging in the slot... it was just a mess. What will bear watching is how the team comes out of the gate Sunday at New Jersey.
• The Rich Clune vs. Adam Pardy stuff was kind of a sad sideshow. I imagine Clune energizes himself by playing to the mob, but that kind of thing drives me bonkers (much like McGrattan used to). At least Clune's mom approves, and that's all that really matters.
• Obviously the guys didn't give up despite the lopsided score, but the one who really stood out to me was Patric Hornqvist. His motor keeps on churning no matter the situation.
• Yes, the Preds got 41 shots. That's what happens when you fall behind early.
• You have to give it up for the MTS Centre crowd, too, which was loud & engaged throughout. You could really hear them in the final moments, as they gave the Jets a standing ovation.

Boxscore - Game Summary - Event Summary - Fancy Stats

Roll the video highlights...

More from On the Forecheck:

• Peter Horachek Hired as Florida Panthers Head Coach
• Friday's Dump & Chase: Hello (Again) Winnipeg!
• Nashville Predators News: Filip Forsberg Sent to Milwaukee, Taylor Beck Called Up
• Animated GIF: Winnipeg's Adam Pardy Loses His Helmet to Chicago Fan
• Report: Pekka Rinne Hip Infection To Keep Him Out 6-8 Weeks/

Who was the Predator of the Game?