Predators Host Avalanche in Key Western Conference Clash
The Nashville Predators will face off against the Colorado Avalanche on December 9 at Bridgestone Arena. This matchup is crucial as both teams seek to strengthen their standings in the Western Conference.
Historically, the Predators hold a slight edge over the Avalanche with a 51-39-5-5 all-time record. They have performed well at home, posting a 28-18-3-2 mark against Colorado. In their recent encounters, Nashville has a 4-4-2 record but dominates the last five meetings at Bridgestone Arena with a 4-1-0 record.
Player Highlights and Milestones
Filip Forsberg stands out with an impressive career average of nearly a point per game against the Avalanche. He has tallied 39 points (19 goals, 20 assists) in 40 games versus Colorado, including five game-winning goals. Ryan O’Reilly, a former Avalanche player, leads all NHL players since 2018-19 with 25 points (9 goals, 16 assists) against Colorado. He spent six seasons with the Avalanche earlier in his career.
Newly acquired goaltender Justus Annunen returns to Bridgestone Arena after being traded from Colorado. Annunen has a 16-9-2 record and a 2.81 goals-against average in 29 games with the Avalanche. Colorado defenseman Samuel Girard, who was drafted by Nashville, also has brief playing history with the Predators.
Several Predators players are approaching personal milestones. Luke Evangelista plays his 200th career game, Erik Haula is four assists away from 200 in the NHL, and Jonathan Marchessault needs five assists to reach 300.
API Music Heritage Night and Fan Engagement
Tonight’s game doubles as API Music Heritage Night in Smashville. The first 5,000 attendees will receive a commemorative poster. The Nissan Atrium stage will feature multiple musical performances before the puck drops. Fans can also participate in the Smashville Stamps activity by visiting six activation tables around the arena concourse for custom stamps and prizes.
The Gnashville Fun Zone offers family-friendly activities such as origami and lantern making. The Predators Foundation area will host auctions of API player-signed jerseys and mystery puck sales, fostering community involvement and fan support.
Broadcast Information
The game will air nationally on TNT, truTV, and HBO MAX. Radio coverage is provided by Pete Weber and Jay More on 102.5 The Game and the Predators Radio Network. Coverage begins one hour prior to puck drop with pregame insights. Spanish broadcasts are available on El Jefe via 96.7 FM, 105.3 FM, and 810 AM.
This December 9 showdown promises exciting hockey action, combining competitive play with an engaging fan experience at Bridgestone Arena.
Read more at: www.nhl.com
