Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Nashville Predators are languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference, trailing the playoff zone by seven points. In contrast, the Florida Panthers are vying for the top spot in the Atlantic Division but unexpectedly lost to the Seattle Kraken (2:1) in their first game after the break, allowing the Toronto Maple Leafs to overtake them.
Nashville Predators
The Nashville Predators are grappling with serious defensive issues, conceding an average of 3.8 goals per game over their last six home matches. After the break, they surprisingly secured a win over the Colorado Avalanche (2:1), only to be completely outplayed by the New Jersey Devils (5:0). The loss of key defencemen Jérémy Lauzon and Adam Wilsby further exacerbates their problems. Even their goaltenders, Juuse Saros and Justus Annunen, have been struggling, stopping only 90% of shots.
Florida Panthers
The Florida Panthers rank fourth in the league in goals scored (193). Sam Reinhart stands out in attack with 31 goals in 58 games – placing him fourth in the NHL – including nine power-play goals. Away from home, the Florida Panthers average 3.45 goals per game and in the autumn they decisively defeated the Nashville Predators (6:2).
Nashville Predators vs Florida Panthers Prediction
The Florida Panthers have dominated head-to-head encounters, recording seven wins in nine matches at Bridgestone Arena since 2019. With the Predators’ defensive frailties and the Panthers’ potent attacking play led by Sam Reinhart, the visitors look set to continue their winning run.
