Nashville Predators Spoil Stars’ Goaltender Return with 6-3 Win

The Nashville Predators emerged victorious with a 6-3 win over the Dallas Stars, spoiling the return of Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger. Ryan O'Reilly played a crucial role with a goal and two assists, while players like Lauzon, Novak, Forsberg, Hakanpaa, Johnston, Duchene, Nyquist, and Parssinen also made significant contributions for Nashville. The Predators’ head coach, Andrew Brunette, praised the team’s collective effort.

Going into the third period with a 2-0 lead on the back of goals by Lauzon and Novak, both teams combined for seven more scores in an action-packed final frame, including two empty-net goals. However, the Predators successfully held onto their lead throughout the game.

Oettinger, who had been sidelined since December 15 due to a groin injury, made 32 saves in his return. Stars coach Pete DeBoer commended Oettinger’s performance, emphasizing that his return without setbacks was the top priority.

While Oettinger’s absence lasted for four weeks, during which the Stars posted a record of 8-3-2, the goaltender was honored with an All-Star selection. Reflecting on his return, Oettinger acknowledged areas for improvement but remained optimistic about moving forward.

This wasn’t Filip Forsberg’s first match-winning goal against Dallas. He delivered the game-winning goal for Nashville in overtime against the Stars last week. The Predators are currently enjoying a solid stretch on the road, with a 6-0-1 record in their last seven away games. Forsberg has been instrumental this season with 22 goals and 47 points, ranking him third in the NHL for game-winners with six.

Dallas Stars players Hakanpaa, Johnston, Duchene, Nyquist, and Parssinen all scored for their team, with Hakanpaa bringing the Stars within 2-1 early in the third period. However, the Predators quickly responded with a goal by O’Reilly to maintain their lead. Johnston and Duchene brought the Stars within reaching distance but ultimately fell short in their comeback.

In the final minutes of the game, Nyquist and Parssinen sealed the victory for the Predators with two empty-net goals. Goaltender Lankinen made 19 saves for Nashville, extending his personal record to 6-3-0 this season. Notably, Lankinen boasts a 6-2-1 career record against the Stars.

Lauzon, currently the NHL leader in hits, showcased his offensive prowess by scoring his career-best fourth goal of the season. Hakanpaa, who previously scored the game-winning goal against Nashville in December, found the back of the net again for his second goal of the season. Johnston’s goal brought his rookie season tally to 11.

Nyquist extended his point streak to 10 games, contributing seven goals and seven assists during this remarkable run.

The Predators will play against the Boston Bruins in their next game, while the Stars will face the Washington Capitals.