The Nashville Predators pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks of the season, defeating the San Jose Sharks 7-5 at Bridgestone Arena on January 21, 2025. The Predators found themselves trailing 5-1 early in the second period but managed to overturn the game with six consecutive goals, securing their fourth straight victory.
It was certainly not the start the Predators envisioned. The Sharks struck first, with Macklin Celebrini scoring less than two minutes cover the match at 1-0. Juuse Saros, the Predators’ goaltender, started the game but faced troubles early, conceding four goals on just eight shots within the first period. Saros was swiftly replaced by rookie Justus Annunen, who would play a pivotal role later on.
The Sharks showcased their offensive prowess, taking advantage of Nashville’s defensive lapses. After Celebrini opened the scoring, former Predators forward Mikael Granlund and defenseman Luke Kunin quickly followed up with goals to give San Jose a commanding 3-0 lead. Things looked increasingly dire for the Predators as Jake Walman added another, bringing the score to 4-1 late in the first period.
Despite the significant setback, the Predators began to rally. Tommy Novak broke through for Nashville, scoring their first goal at the 8:12 mark of the second period, igniting hopes for the home team's fanbase. After this goal, Fedor Svechkov followed with another, narrowing the gap to 5-2 less than four minutes later.
Exuberance filled the arena when Justin Barron connected to make it 5-3 after being down 5-1 just moments before. The momentum built even more when Jonathan Marchessault contributed with his own goal early in the third period, sending the crowd roaring as the Predators clawed their way back to parity, tying the game at 5-5. Marchessault’s performance turned heads, wrapping up the night with one goal and three assists.
Nick Blankenburg emerged as the hero of the evening, notching the Predators' first lead of the contest just three minutes later. His strike at 8:09 of the third period transformed the atmosphere inside Bridgestone Arena as jubilant fans celebrated his third goal of the season. Filip Forsberg then put the finishing touch on the game with an empty-net goal, extending his goal streak to six games and solidifying the Predators’ comeback win.
Nashville's head coach praised the team's resilience and attributed the win to their relentless effort and ability to refocus after the rough start. According to sources, both Saros and Annunen had contrasting nights, with Saros being pulled but regardless, credited for having been strong throughout the prior games. Annunen made 15 saves, stabilizing the Predators for the remainder of the contest.
On the Shark’s side, Granlund put forth stellar effort, scoring two of San Jose's five goals. Despite the disappointing loss, he echoed sentiments of pride for his team, noting their early dominance before Nashville seized control. Sharks coach candidly remarked, "Our start was perfect, but we couldn't hold on to the lead. Our defense needs to tighten up as we head forward."
After such spectacular finish to the game, both teams were set for another encounter just 48 hours later, where the Sharks would look to rebound from their shortcomings against the surging Predators. The rematch promises to draw attention as both teams aim to solidify their standings amid challenging seasons.
This thrilling victory not only upgraded the Predators' league position with this fourth-straight win but also provided valuable momentum heading back to San Jose, targeting improved results on the ice.