The Nashville Predators' recent struggles continued as they fell 7-4 to the New York Islanders, marking their seventh loss in the last ten games. A disastrous first period saw the Islanders dominate, outshooting the Predators 19-3 and establishing a 3-0 lead. J.G. Pageau initiated the scoring, followed by Kyle Palmieri and Bo Horvat, who netted goals before the period ended.

Despite a brief resurgence with Colton Sissons scoring early in the second, Brock Nelson quickly responded with a short-handed goal. Additional goals from Sissons and Marc Del Gaizo, who scored his first NHL goal, highlighted the match's competitive spirit, but ultimately, the Predators could not recover from the early deficit.

In a thrilling matchup, the Nashville Predators halted the Winnipeg Jets' impressive 11-game winning streak with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. The Predators' Juuse Saros was solid in net, making 23 saves, while Filip Forsberg and Tommy Novak accounted for Nashville's goals. Forsberg opened the scoring early, capitalizing on a faceoff play. The Jets responded through Neal Pionk, but the Predators quickly regained the lead with Novak's power-play goal. Despite the Jets' efforts, including a two-man advantage late in the second, they failed to capitalize on their opportunities, including going 0 for 4 on the power play.

This win was crucial for the Predators, snapping their two-game losing streak and offering a much-needed boost as they look to turn their season around. The Jets, on the other hand, faced challenges after their recent success, playing back-to-back games and struggling to find their rhythm against the energized Predators.

The Colorado Avalanche fell short in their first game after the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off break, losing to the Nashville Predators 2-1 despite dominating the shot count 32-17. Juuse Saros made 31 saves, keeping the Avs at bay. Coach Jared Bednar praised his team's energy but lamented their inability to finish chances, a recurring theme from earlier in the season. Nathan MacKinnon, fresh from winning MVP honors in the 4 Nations tournament, led the Avalanche with eight shots on goal but was unable to convert. Jonathan Marchessault scored the game-winner for Nashville, capitalizing on a fortunate bounce. The Avalanche's struggles continue as they sit four points behind Minnesota in the Central Division.

The NHL Star Power Index highlights players who are generating significant buzz in the league, particularly following the 4 Nations Face-Off. Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche showcased his offensive prowess, leading Canada to victory with four goals, earning MVP honors, and averaging a goal per game—a feat not seen since 2004. Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets shined for the U.S., leading all players in the tournament with six assists, while Sidney Crosby, at 37, proved he's still elite with a goal and four assists. Juuse Saros faced challenges as Finland struggled, leading to a disappointing tournament for the goaltender.

Kevin Lankinen will be the starting goaltender for Team Finland in the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off against Sweden following Juuse Saros' disappointing performance against the United States. Saros, who has struggled with the Nashville Predators, had a rough start allowing six goals on 32 shots in a 6-1 loss. Coach Antti Pennanen emphasized the need for adjustments, praising Lankinen's recent performance.

The Canadian team anticipates the return of top defenseman Cale Makar, who missed practice due to illness, as they prepare to face the U.S. on Saturday night. Canada is already facing roster challenges with Shea Theodore out due to injury. Meanwhile, U.S. coach Mike Sullivan is keeping his options open regarding any potential lineup changes after a strong victory over Finland.