Nashville Predators vs. St. Louis Blues: A Sunday Night Showdown

Get ready for a Central Division clash as the Nashville Predators face off against the St. Louis Blues this Sunday at 6 p.m. EDT. The Blues, with a record of 36-28-7, will host the Predators, who stand at 26-35-8. This matchup promises excitement, especially with both teams looking to solidify their position within the division. Tune in to see if the Predators can upset the odds or if the Blues will defend their home ice.

The St. Louis Blues enter this game as the favorites, with a -173 moneyline, while the Predators are listed at +145. The over/under is set at 5.5 goals, suggesting a potentially high-scoring affair. The Blues have shown strength within their division, holding a 9-9-2 record against Central Division opponents. Overall, their +four scoring differential indicates a balanced team capable of both scoring and defending. Will they live up to expectations, or can Nashville pull off an upset?

Nashville, on the other hand, has struggled with consistency this season, holding a 26-35-8 record. However, their 10-8-2 record against Central Division rivals shows they can compete within the division. A key factor in their games has been penalties; they struggle when their opponents commit fewer penalties, holding a 9-18-3 record in such games. Can they capitalize on any penalties the Blues might take, or will discipline be the deciding factor?

Key Players to Watch

Jordan Kyrou has been a standout performer for the Blues, with 29 goals and 30 assists. His offensive prowess will be crucial for the Blues’ success. Also, keep an eye on Zachary Bolduc, who has been hot recently with five goals and two assists in his last 10 games. Will Kyrou continue his impressive season, and can Bolduc maintain his recent form against the Predators?

For the Predators, Filip Forsberg leads the charge with 27 goals and 37 assists. His ability to find the back of the net and create scoring opportunities will be vital for Nashville. Steven Stamkos has also been contributing, with six goals and five assists in his last 10 games. Can Forsberg and Stamkos lead the Predators’ offense to a much-needed victory on the road?

Recent Form and Statistics

The Blues have been in excellent form recently, going 7-2-1 in their last 10 games. They’ve averaged 3.7 goals per game while conceding just 2.5. Their special teams have been disciplined, averaging only 2.7 penalties per game. This strong form makes them a dangerous opponent. Can they maintain this high level of play against Nashville?

The Predators have had a more mixed run, going 5-4-1 in their last 10. They’ve averaged 2.5 goals per game while conceding 2.6. A concern for Nashville is their penalty record, averaging 11.7 penalty minutes per game. This undisciplined play could cost them against a strong Blues team. Will they tighten up their discipline and improve their chances of winning?

Previous Matchups

This Sunday’s game marks the third meeting between the Blues and Predators this season. In their last encounter, the Blues dominated with a 4-1 victory, with Jordan Kyrou scoring two goals. The Predators will be looking for revenge and to prove they can compete with the Blues. Can Nashville turn the tables and secure a win this time around?

Prediction

Given the Blues’ strong recent form and their dominance in the previous matchup, they appear to be the favorites heading into Sunday’s game. However, the Predators have the talent to cause an upset, particularly if Filip Forsberg can have a significant impact. Expect a tightly contested game, but the Blues should edge out a victory on home ice. The final score prediction is St. Louis Blues 4, Nashville Predators 3.