Full Breakdown
Predators Edge Wild in Overtime Thriller
12/24/2025, 11:32:01 AM
Game Overview
On December 23, 2025, the Nashville Predators faced off against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota. The Predators emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in overtime, marking their fourth win in five games and improving their record to 16-16-4. The Wild, who had recently snapped a seven-game winning streak, fell to 22-10-6.
Scoring Summary
The game began with the Wild taking an early lead when defenseman Brock Faber scored at 7:00 of the first period, assisted by Quinn Hughes and Nico Sturm. The Predators responded with two power-play goals by Ryan O'Reilly and Roman Josi, giving them a 2-1 lead by the end of the first period. O'Reilly's goal came at 14:28, followed by Josi's at 17:07.
In the second period, Joel Eriksson Ek tied the game for the Wild just 52 seconds in, capitalizing on a delayed penalty against Nashville. The score remained tied at 2-2 through the third period, necessitating overtime.
In the overtime period, Steven Stamkos scored the decisive goal just 53 seconds in, assisted by Erik Haula and Nick Blankenburg, sealing the win for Nashville.
Key Player Performances
Steven Stamkos not only scored the game-winning goal but also contributed an assist, marking his 1,200th NHL game. Ryan O'Reilly had a goal and an assist, while Roman Josi added another goal for the Predators. For the Wild, Brock Faber and Joel Eriksson Ek were the goal scorers, with Faber's performance notable as he played his 200th NHL game.
Goaltender Juuse Saros made 30 saves for Nashville, while Filip Gustavsson stopped 26 shots for Minnesota.
Official Statements & Responses
Nashville coach Andrew Brunette praised Saros's performance, stating, “I thought (Saros) was fantastic, kept it where it was.” Minnesota coach John Hynes reflected on the game, noting, “Two penalty-kill goals. Didn’t score on our power plays and a 3-on-3 goal. So, I think that was the difference in the game.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the close score, Wild players expressed concerns regarding their special teams' performance. Brock Faber commented, “Special teams need to get cleaned up,” indicating that the team's power play struggles contributed to their defeat.
What's Next
Following the holiday break, the Wild will embark on a seven-game road trip, starting with a match against the Winnipeg Jets on December 27. The Predators will face the St. Louis Blues on the same day.
Conclusion
The overtime victory for the Predators not only highlights their recent resurgence but also underscores the competitive nature of the Western Conference. Both teams will look to build on their performances as they head into the latter part of the NHL season.
