The Nashville Predators finally have something to celebrate. After an offseason full of blockbuster additions, the team’s 0-5 start to the 2024-25 NHL season was raising alarm bells. But on Tuesday night, the Predators found their groove, shutting out the formidable Boston Bruins 4-0 at Bridgestone Arena for their first victory of the campaign.
Leading the way was goaltender Juuse Saros, who stopped all 33 shots he faced to record his 25th career shutout. The Vezina Trophy finalist’s stellar performance was a welcome sight for a Nashville squad that had allowed 17 goals through its first five games.
Offense Finds Its Footing
The Predators’ attack, bolstered by offseason acquisitions like Ryan O’Reilly and Gustav Nyquist, finally clicked against Boston. O’Reilly opened the scoring late in the first period, deflecting a Roman Josi point shot past Bruins netminder Jeremy Swayman on the power play. The goal snapped Swayman’s shutout streak in Nashville at 136:34.
Luke Evangelista and Tommy Novak found the back of the net as well, while Nyquist iced the game with a late tally, his first as a Predator. The offensive outburst was a promising sign for a group that managed just 10 goals over the season’s first five games.
Newcomers Making an Impact
Nashville’s active offseason, headlined by signing former Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos, raised expectations for the team. But the early returns were discouraging, with Stamkos himself preaching patience after Saturday’s loss to Detroit.
“We’re going to have to watch some film and do some work. By no means is the season lost.”
– Steven Stamkos following Nashville’s 5-2 loss to the Red Wings on October 21
If Tuesday’s win is any indication, the work is paying off. O’Reilly’s power-play marker got the ball rolling, while fellow newcomer Nyquist sealed the deal. The depth scoring Nashville desired when retooling its roster was on full display.
Building Momentum
One win doesn’t erase Nashville’s sluggish start, but it’s a crucial first step. Saros finding his Vezina form and the offense coming to life against a stout Boston team should give the Predators a jolt of confidence.
The key now is to build on this performance. Nashville has a chance to start a winning streak with upcoming games against the Blues and Avalanche. If the power play continues to click and Saros maintains his elite play, the Predators could quickly climb the standings in a competitive Central Division.
It’s still early, but Tuesday’s shutout victory may be the turning point Nashville desperately needed. For a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, getting that first win under their belt could be the catalyst for greater success to come.
