Predators Aim to Cement Playoff Position Against Blackhawks
Nashville Predators, fresh off a crucial victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, travel to the United Center on Sunday afternoon to face the Chicago Blackhawks. The Predators are looking to solidify their hold on a Western Conference Wild Card spot, while the Blackhawks aim to finish the season strong despite being out of playoff contention.
Recent Performance and Standings
The Predators (32-28-9) secured a 4-1 win against the Golden Knights on Saturday, propelling them into the second Wild Card position in the Western Conference with 73 points.1 Since December 9th, Nashville has demonstrated strong performance, going 22-14-5, boasting the fifth-highest point percentage (.598) in the Western Conference.1
The Blackhawks (31-25-14) are mathematically eliminated from playoff contention and suffered a 4-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Friday.3
Key Players
Steven Stamkos led the Predators against Vegas with two goals and an assist, bringing his season total to 33 goals and 55 points.2 He also broke a tie with Brendan Shanahan for seventh place on the NHL’s all-time list with 238 career power-play goals.1 Ryan O’Reilly contributed a goal and leads the team with 64 points, while Filip Forsberg has 30 goals and 59 points.1
For the Blackhawks, Connor Bedard remains the offensive leader with 28 goals and 65 points. Tyler Bertuzzi also has 28 goals and 49 points.3
Head-to-Head Record
The Predators hold a strong historical advantage over the Blackhawks, with an overall record of 74-53-12.1 Nashville has won eight of the last ten meetings and four of the last five at the United Center. They have earned at least a point in 32 of their last 38 games against Chicago.1
Game Details
Time: 2:00 p.m. CT3
TV: CHSN (in-market), ESPN+ (out-of-market)3
Radio: WGN-720-AM, Blackhawks App3
Injury Report
Juuse Saros (upper body) remains day-to-day for the Predators and did not play Saturday.1
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