Predators Seek Momentum Retrieval in Game 2 Against Canucks
The Nashville Predators learned a harsh lesson about the volatility of playoff momentum in their series opener against the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday. Now, the onus falls on the visiting Predators to reclaim that momentum in Game 2 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on Tuesday in Vancouver.
The Predators executed an effective road game plan, holding a 2-1 lead midway through the third period. However, two goals surrendered within 12 seconds swung the game in the Canucks’ favor, resulting in a 4-2 loss for the Predators.
“The game was there for us,” said veteran Predators forward Ryan O’Reilly. “We had a couple of lapses, and I’m sure many guys wish they could have some shifts back. I know I could have done better. But we move on and try to improve.”
The Predators, the Western Conference’s top wild-card team, have identified key areas where they need to improve to level the best-of-seven matchup.
“We were definitely in it,” said Nashville captain Roman Josi. “They got two quick goals, which gave them momentum, and that’s playoff hockey. But I believe we can play better.”
Despite holding a 2-1 lead thanks in part to a power-play goal, the Predators failed to capitalize on three subsequent power plays, allowing the Canucks to draw even.
“I felt like we were a bit slow on those other power plays,” Josi said. “We couldn’t generate much, so that’s an area we definitely need to improve.”
Historically, the Predators have struggled when losing Game 1 of a seven-game series, boasting an 0-12 series record in such scenarios.
The Canucks, fueled by the emotions of their first home playoff game since 2015, have seized the momentum in the series. The key for Vancouver will be to maintain their control and home-ice advantage.
Enhanced secondary scoring, as showcased in the series opener, will be crucial for the Canucks. While Vancouver’s stars contributed, it was the third line that made the difference. Dakota Joshua scored twice and tallied three points, while Elias Lindholm, despite lingering injury concerns, scored once and assisted on one of Joshua’s goals with his effective forechecking.
“It’s an unforgettable moment,” said Joshua about scoring his first playoff goal, which ultimately proved to be the game-winner. “It makes you want to keep it up.”
While the Pacific Division champions can savor their victory, they acknowledge the need for improvements to maintain their success. The Canucks committed numerous penalties, potentially a byproduct of heightened emotions, and struggled to generate offensive pressure until their third-period surge. Vancouver only managed four shots on net in the first period.
“The way we played in the third is the standard we want to set,” said Lindholm. “We had shifts where we pinned them down and spent a lot of time in their zone. That’s our identity, and we can build on that.”
The Predators, motivated by their loss, are expected to respond strongly.
“We expect them to come out hard, but we’re not waiting for it,” said Canucks forward J.T. Miller. “We need to keep pushing and get even better. We weren’t perfect, so there’s room for improvement, which is exciting.”
