The Nashville Predators looked competitive at their first game back at Bridgestone Arena. There was a lot of offensive pressure in front of Reimer. Good puck movement and awareness from players created good scoring opportunities.

Matt Duchene scored a powerplay goal early in the first period to start off the scoring. He carried the puck well while entering the zone. He had a lot of confidence with the puck and was able to find the back of the net.

“It feels like Reimer always plays his best against us,” said Duchene during post-game.

“We want to stay on green. I think the big difference is we’re scoring in different ways. That’s credit to coaching and guys buying in.” – #Preds Matt Duchene pic.twitter.com/Y59Adj6BTH

— Abigail Martin (@AbigailDMartin) October 27, 2021

Colton Sissons had key plays that were very telling of the player he is. He forced a turnover into the offensive zone that he passed to the front door. Reimer was forced to make a big save with a lack of defense in front. In the second, he had a great look in front that he passed to Trenin. Sissons is a talented player that shows his confidence and skill where it matters. He even saw time on special teams where the Predators
successfully killed each advantage.

There was a lot of momentum early that started to fade at the end of the two periods. The Sharks were not able to take advantage, but you could see the energy shifting. Juuse Saros played very well as he looked to bounce back from a 6-4 loss against the Winnipeg Jets. You could consider tonight to be his best game of the season so far.

Matt Duchene said, “It feels like every night is Saros’ best game.”

The penalty kill needs work. I was impressed with the first kill tonight, though. There was a tight defense in front of Saros. Each of the four stayed tight in the center and forced the Sharks’ offense out to the perimeter. With a few seconds to go, it quickly became chaotic.

This team is known for being “consistently inconsistent,” but tonight showed the team that is competitive. They were able to hold onto their early lead even after allowing the lone goal. The offensive mindset that was shown tonight is what this team needs. Keeping the pressure throughout the entire game will be a difference-maker. This team has a young and talented group that can win games.

The Nashville Predators will be back at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday when they take on the New York Islanders.