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Nashville Predators Start 2026 on the Road Against Seattle Kraken
SEATTLE, WA – The Nashville Predators will ring in the New Year by facing the Seattle Kraken tonight at Climate Pledge Arena at 9 p.m. CT. Fresh off a 4-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on New Year’s Eve, the Predators aim to extend their winning streak against a Kraken team currently riding a five-game point streak.
The Predators are coming off a strong December, securing 10 wins and bolstering their confidence. Head Coach Andrew Brunette expressed optimism about the team’s progress, stating, “We’re growing, we’re building… I think we’re starting to get better.”
The game follows a milestone performance for Nashville, with veteran forward Steven Stamkos scoring his 600th career NHL goal in yesterday’s game. Nick Perbix, Reid Schaefer, and Michael Bunting also scored for the Predators, while Justus Annunen recorded the win in goal. Erik Haula earned his 200th career assist.
Ryan O’Reilly leads the Predators in scoring with 34 points, followed by Filip Forsberg (31 points) and Luke Evangelista (29 points). Stamkos leads the team in goals with 18.
The Seattle Kraken, led by Jordan Eberle and former Predator Eeli Tolvanen (both with 25 points), will present a tough challenge. Goaltender Joey Daccord has a 10-9-5 record in net.
The Predators hold a 5-7-0 all-time record against the Kraken. This season marks the first of three meetings between the two teams, with two more scheduled for March. The Preds’ lineup remains unchanged since the Dec 31st game, with Jonathan Marchessault out with an injury.
Nashville’s quest to reach 2,100 franchise games. Erik Haula is approaching his 800th NHL game, needing just two more appearances.
Fans can tune into the action beginning at 8:30 p.m. CT with the Predators LIVE! pregame show on FanDuel Sports Network South. Radio coverage will be available on 102.5 The Game and the Predators Radio Network.
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