Nashville Predators Face Off Against Dallas Stars in Crucial Matchup

Dallas, TX — The Dallas Stars prepare to host the Nashville Predators at American Airlines Center on April 3, 2025, as the NHL playoff picture intensifies. With the Stars sitting in second place in the Central Division with 102 points and the Predators at seventh with 62 points, this match is pivotal for both teams.

The Stars boast a record of 49-21-4, including a strong home performance at 27-7-2. In contrast, the Predators struggle with a record of 27-40-8, including only 9 wins on the road (9-24-5). Dallas’s recent performance indicates a streak of 7 wins in their last 10 games, while Nashville has struggled, winning only 2.

Stars forward Wyatt Johnston has skated into the spotlight, as he has scored in each of his last five games. Johnston’s impressive form could see him achieve a personal milestone if he scores again on Thursday, marking six consecutive games with goals for the first time in his career. He has registered 7 points (4 goals, 3 assists) in just 10 games against the Predators.

Filip Forsberg, Nashville’s key player, looks to continue his strong season, tallying 68 points (29 goals, 39 assists) so far. He is nearing the 70-point mark, which would be significant as it would mark the third time in his career achieving that milestone. Forsberg leads all active Swedish-born players in goals with 316 and ranks among the top in assists and points.

Mikko Rantanen, recently acquired by the Stars from the Carolina Hurricanes, has adapted well despite a drop in ice time. Rantanen has put up 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) in 12 games with Dallas. Stars coach Pete DeBoer noted, “It’s an adjustment, but I think he was doing the same in Carolina. There are very few places in the league where they dole out ice time like they do in Colorado.”

Rantanen emphasized the importance of team depth in Dallas, stating, “I think you save energy for the playoffs.” The Stars’ depth has historically allowed key players like Joe Pavelski and Matt Duchene to maintain their production levels throughout the season.

Statistically, the Predators struggle offensively, averaging just 2.52 goals per game—ranking last in the NHL—compared to the Stars’ 3.30 goals per game. The Stars have excelled on special teams, with a power play conversion rate of 22.5%, compared to the Predators’ 21.2%. Defensively, however, Dallas is last in goals by slapshots with just 5 this season.

Coaches are keeping a close watch on injured players, with DeBoer updating on team status. “Miro has just started skating, so he’s obviously further away than Tyler. Tyler is out with us, but still has some big hurdles to clear, including contact.”

The excitement around this crucial matchup continues as both teams look to solidify their positions ahead of the playoffs. The Stars’ recent performance and home advantage will be vital as they aim for the top seed in the Central Division.