In Nashville, Juuse Saros made 41 saves and the Predators blanked the Chicago Blackhawks, 3-0.
The win pushed the Preds into sole possession of the fourth spot in the division.
“I think we’ve found our identity lately and we’ve had these big character wins lately,” Saros said. “We’re moving in the right direction, but there’s also a lot of games left so we’ve just got to keep our foot on the gas.”
They are two points ahead of the Blackhawks.
“We understand how important these games are, especially with these games that are head-to-head with these teams that are right neck and neck with us,” Sissons said. “We’ve been able to rise to the occasion and not succumb to that pressure and make mistakes all night long. We’re pretty comfortable right now, and we’ve built some confidence over the last few weeks here.”
Nashville scored a goal in each period, with Eeli Tolvanen, Colton Sissons and Luke Kunin getting the strikes.
Chicago has four of their last games and surrendered the playoff position after seemingly have had in control.
“Obviously it’s tough,” Chicago’s Duncan Keith said. “It was a huge game, and these are the biggest games right now of the year. It’s a tough loss but we did a lot of good things 5-on-5. Unfortunately, special teams, they scored a quick power-play goal in the first and then we had a tough power play and they ended up getting a penalty shot. Every goal is huge, especially this time of year, and it’d be nice to try to get that first one and carry some momentum.”
Nashville have won seven of eight.
Tolvanen’s goal came off the only power play the Predators had on the afternoon.
“It’s a pretty easy spot to play right now,” Tolvanen said. “[Calle Jarnkrok] is making great plays on the seam passes, and we have [Roman Josi] up top and they have to respect his shot. I think that’s opened up shooting lanes for me, and I think [Mikael Granlund] is doing a great job on the net front. I think it’s just easy to try and hit those little spots there.”
Chicago was scoreless n four power play chances.
Kevin Lankinen made 18 saves in the loss.
“Hockey’s a weird game,” Chicago’s Dylan Strome said. “I thought we played pretty good. We had a lot of chances. We ran into a hot goalie and they scored on their chances. It’s frustrating, but we have to find a way to climb out of this little hole we’re in and get some wins.”
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