Nashville Predators confident for another win as they take on San Jose Sharks – NHL Preview
San Jose Sharks have got to immediately do something to gain their form back or else they might not be able to reach the National Hockey League (NHL) playoffs this season and especially now whey they are out of the comfort zone in the Western Conference,
the pressure and risk are ever increasing.
A victory against Nashville Predators on Thursday, March 15, 2012, at HP Pavilion, San Jose, California, might once again bring Sharks among the top eight teams of the Western Conference, but that encounter will certainly not be easy as Predators are in
top for these days.
Let’s take a look at both teams.
Sharks
Sharks have lost six out of seven games played this month. They lost the first five and managed to snap the skid by defeating Edmonton Oilers. However, they were defeated by Calgary Flames in their last game.
Sharks were leading, 1-0, after the first period, but Flames scored twice in the second period to snatch the lead.
Sharks levelled the score in the final period and sent the game to overtime where Flames scored to win the game.
Sharks’ coach, Todd McLellan, said after the game:
"One point is better than none but that wasn't what our goal was, so we're disappointed leaving. I thought we played well enough to get two but we're not going home with them."
Sharks are ranked at ninth spot in the Western Conference with 78 points after 69 games.
Predators
Presently on a three-game winning streak, Predators are ranked at fifth spot in the Western Conference with 89 points after 69 games.
The recent victories came against Colorado Avalanche (4-2), Detroit Red Wings (3-2) and Phoenix Coyotes (5-4 after shootout).
Predators were leading, 1-0, after the first period. Both teams scored two goals each in the next period while Predators added another early in the final period, but conceded two more goals that took the game to overtime.
The overtime went goalless and the game was then forced to shootout where Predators won the game.
Predators’ goaltender, Pekka Rinne, said after the game:
"It was a little disappointing to give up the two late goals, but we managed to get two points and that's the important thing. It may not be so good when a team comes from behind like that, but with the win, you feel fine."
Predictions
Predators have an edge.
The sum of goals scored by both teams might exceed six.
If Sharks win, the winning margin will be less than two goals.
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