Cole Smith’s third-period goal lifts the Nashville Predators to a 2-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks, snapping Vancouver’s road momentum.
Smith Strikes Late as Nashville Outlasts Vancouver
The Nashville Predators gave their fans plenty to cheer about Thursday night at Bridgestone Arena, edging out the visiting Vancouver Canucks 2-1 in a tight NHL showdown. Cole Smith’s third-period goal made all the difference, breaking the deadlock and propelling Nashville back to .500 on the season.
Ryan O’Reilly also found the back of the net for the Predators, while goaltender Juuse Saros turned away 20 shots to secure the win. Vancouver’s Max Sasson scored his third goal in just five games, but even his hot streak couldn’t prevent the Canucks from dropping their second straight contest.
Canucks’ Hot Start Cools Off
After storming through the first three games of their five-game road trip, Vancouver stumbled in the final two. The Canucks couldn’t capitalize on their chances early — despite four power plays and even a 5-on-3 advantage in the first period. Nashville’s defense stayed sharp, outshooting Vancouver 12-5 through the opening 20 minutes and keeping the scoreboard clean.
O’Reilly Opens the Scoring — Short-Handed
The breakthrough came midway through the second period. O’Reilly, showing his veteran poise, sprinted down the left wing and fired a quick wrister that beat Vancouver’s Thatcher Demko glove side for a short-handed goal.
Vancouver, however, responded just minutes later. Sasson, continuing his impressive run, slipped a clever shot between Saros’ pads after a slick feed from Linus Karlsson, leveling the game at 1-1.
Smith’s Subtle Touch Seals It
The deciding moment arrived early in the third. Smith’s seemingly harmless point shot floated toward Demko, took a slight deflection, and crept just across the line. It wasn’t flashy — but it counted. The goal gave Nashville the edge they wouldn’t relinquish, despite a late Canucks push.
Demko stood tall once again, finishing with 33 saves, but his stellar performance wasn’t enough to earn the win.
What’s Next
Vancouver will look to regroup back home with a weekend doubleheader — facing the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday at 4 p.m. and the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday at 7 p.m. Nashville, meanwhile, will hope to build on its momentum as it continues to climb the standings.
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