The Nashville Predators showed flashes of offensive brilliance but ultimately fell short in a 5-4 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday night. The loss extends Nashville’s struggles as they drop to 9-17-7 on the season.
Jonathan Marchessault opened the scoring early for Nashville, netting his ninth goal of the season at 3:51 of the first period off assists from Filip Forsberg and Luke Schenn. After Pittsburgh’s Bryan Rust evened the score, Luke Evangelista restored the Predators’ lead with a power-play tally late in the first, his fourth goal of the season.
Steven Stamkos continued the offensive outburst early in the second period, scoring his ninth of the year to give Nashville a 3-1 lead. However, the Penguins responded with two quick goals from Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell to erase the advantage.
In the third period, defenseman Brady Skjei notched his third goal of the season to put Nashville back in front 4-3, but Erik Karlsson’s equalizer midway through the frame eventually forced overtime. Bryan Rust would end it for Pittsburgh just 1:07 into the extra session.
Despite the loss, several Predators had strong offensive showings. Filip Forsberg recorded two assists, while Brady Skjei finished with a goal and an assist. The team generated consistent pressure throughout the night, outshooting Pittsburgh 26-20.
Goalie Comparison
| Goalie | GA | SA | SV | SV% | TOI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Juuse Saros (NSH) | 5 | 20 | 15 | .750 | 60:57 |
| Tristan Jarry (PIT) | 4 | 26 | 22 | .846 | 61:07 |
The Predators showed strong possession numbers throughout the game, with several players posting impressive Corsi numbers. Filip Forsberg and Jonathan Marchessault both recorded 75% Corsi-for percentages, while the team generated 61 shot attempts to Pittsburgh’s 40 at even strength.
Nashville’s power play continued to show signs of life, converting one of their three opportunities with the man advantage. However, defensive breakdowns at key moments proved costly, as the Penguins capitalized on their chances despite being outshot.
The loss marks another frustrating outcome in a challenging season for Nashville. The Predators will look to regroup and build on the positive offensive elements from this performance as they continue their homestand.
Three Stars of the Game:
- Bryan Rust (PIT) – 2 goals, 2 assists
- Sidney Crosby (PIT) – 1 goal, 3 assists
- Brady Skjei (NSH) – 1 goal, 1 assist
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