Full Breakdown
Anaheim Ducks Secure Victory Over Nashville Predators
10/22/2025, 2:59:12 PM
Game Overview
On October 21, 2025, the Anaheim Ducks defeated the Nashville Predators 5-2 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, ending a two-game losing streak for the Ducks. The victory was marked by strong performances from several players, including rookie Beckett Sennecke, who scored his third goal of the season, and Ross Johnston, who achieved a Gordie Howe hat trick with a goal, two assists, and a fight.
Key Players and Contributions
Beckett Sennecke, the third overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, scored a crucial goal late in the second period, extending the Ducks' lead to 4-2. He has now accumulated five points in his first six NHL games. Ross Johnston opened the scoring for Anaheim with his first goal of the season and contributed significantly throughout the game, including a secondary assist on Sennecke's goal. Johnston's performance was notable as it marked his first career three-point game in his 250th NHL appearance.
Cutter Gauthier, Leo Carlsson, and Troy Terry also contributed to the Ducks' scoring, with Gauthier and Carlsson each netting a goal and an assist. Lukas Dostal made 26 saves in goal for Anaheim, helping to secure the win.
Game Dynamics
The Ducks took the lead for the first time in six games, a significant shift from their previous struggles to maintain leads. The game featured back-and-forth scoring, with the Predators tying the game twice through goals from Tyson Jost and Filip Forsberg. However, defensive lapses by Nashville allowed Anaheim to capitalize, scoring three unanswered goals in the latter part of the game.
Predators' captain Roman Josi criticized his team's performance, stating, “We gave them all their goals. I felt like it was really easy goals for them.” The Predators have now lost four consecutive games, struggling with defensive consistency and offensive production.
Official Statements & Responses
After the game, Johnston reflected on the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of their early scoring and the contributions from depth players. He stated, “We were hounding pucks, and I thought we were all over it in the first period and we started to get rewarded.” Predators head coach Andrew Brunette acknowledged the team's defensive shortcomings, noting, “We were a little bit leaky most of the night.”
Criticism & Opposition
The Nashville Predators faced significant criticism for their defensive play, particularly regarding turnovers and missed assignments that led to easy goals for the Ducks. Josi highlighted the need for the team to return to their identity and play style, which they failed to do against Anaheim. The Predators' struggles were compounded by a lack of offensive rhythm, as they managed only two goals despite having opportunities.
What's Next
Following this matchup, the Ducks will continue their five-game road trip, facing the Boston Bruins next. Meanwhile, the Predators will look to regroup as they host the Vancouver Canucks in their next game. Both teams will aim to address their respective issues as the season progresses.
