Nashville Predators Set to Face Dallas Stars on Opening Night

The Nashville Predators are set to kick off their 2024-25 season with a highly anticipated opening night match against the Dallas Stars at Bridgestone Arena. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7 p.m. Central Time on October 10th, marking the beginning of the 26th season for the Predators in the NHL.

Coming off what has been described as the most exciting offseason in team history, the Predators are looking to start their campaign with a statement against their Central Division rivals. The team made significant moves in the free agency market by acquiring prominent players like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei, adding to an already formidable squad led by General Manager Barry Trotz.

“We’ve got the pieces in this group to have success,” said Ryan O’Reilly, the Predators’ Alternate Captain. “The ultimate goal is to win the Cup, and I think we have a belief that we can.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on day-to-day efforts.

The game against the Stars promises to be challenging, as the Dallas team was a formidable opponent last season, reaching the Western Conference Final. According to Predators Head Coach Andrew Brunette, “It’s a great test. You want to play those games, right? You don’t want a boring first game.”

On the eve of the game, Predators’ starting goaltender Juuse Saros was announced as day-to-day with a lower-body injury. Both he and other netminders Scott Wedgewood and Matt Murray were present at the practice session, but the choice of the starting goalie remains up in the air.

The opening night festivities at Bridgestone Arena include a Plaza Party commencing at 3 p.m., followed by the Preds Player Gold Walk at 4 p.m. and arena doors opening at 5 p.m.

Despite a preseason affected by the cancellation of the finale against Tampa Bay, the Predators displayed solid performances, finishing with a record of 2-3-0. Highlights included a 6-0 triumph over Tampa Bay.

The Predators will count on key players like Filip Forsberg, who notched a franchise-record 48 goals last season, and Roman Josi, a constant offensive threat from the blueline. New additions Stamkos and Marchessault bring substantial scoring capabilities, with past season records of 40 and 42 goals, respectively.

Predators fans can tune in to the opening match via an exclusive broadcast on ESPN+ and Hulu, with live commentary from Bob Wischusen and AJ Mlezcko. Local radio broadcasts will also cover the event extensively.