Jan 16, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators left wing Filip Forsberg (9) takes a shot on goal against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
As disappointing as the 2024-25 season was for the Nashville Predators, there were some milestones and positive moments that, albeit briefly, put smiles on the faces of Preds fans.
Here’s a look at three great moments from last season.
Forsberg Gets No. 300
Jan. 16, 2025, was a great night all around for the Predators.
Filip Forsberg’s 300th career goal came in a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks at Bridgestone Arena.
Forsberg’s goal tied the score at 2-2 with less than three minutes left in the third period, as he fired a slapshot home from the right side.
After overtime came and went without a tally from either side, the Predators got scores from Gustav Nyquist, Ryan O’Reilly and Steven Stamkos in the shootout to secure the victory. It was the Preds’ first shootout of the season.
Forsberg’s milestone wasn’t the only thrill that night. The team honored the inaugural class of its Preds Golden Hall. David Poile, Shea Weber and Pekka Rinne dropped the ceremonial puck before the game got underway. It was also the Predators’ 1001st victory in franchise history.
Saros Notches Career Win Milestone
On March 25, 2025, Preds goalie Juuse Saros earned his 200th career victory in a road triumph over the Carolina Hurricanes at LenovoCenter.
Saros stopped 34 shots in the win, while Luke Evangelista helped the cause with two goals. The victory also gave Nashville a sweep of the season series with the Canes.
Michael Bunting put the Predators in front 1-0 on a power-play goal, his second as a member of the Preds.
Evangelista’s backhander made the score 2-0 before Carolina narrowed the gap on a second-period goal by Taylor Hall.
Saros was tested throughout the game, particularly in the middle frame, but made some clutch saves to keep his team in front.
Evangelista added some insurance after tipping in a Marc Del Gaizo shot in the third.
Saros became the sixth Finnish-born goaltender in NHL history to reach the 200-win milestone. Rinne tops that list with 369.
Preds End Season With Win Over Dallas
Playoffs wouldn’t be in the cards for the Predators, but pride still mattered as they took on the Dallas Stars in the final game of the regular season Apr. 16 at Bridgestone Arena.
It was Fan Appreciation Night, and the home crowd definitely appreciated the send-off. Five different Preds skaters scored in a 5-1 victory over the Stars, who ultimately got to the Western Conference Finals.
Jordan Oesterle, Jakub Vrana, Justin Barron, Jonathan Marchessault and Ryan O’Reilly all tallied for the Preds, while Juuse Saros made 29 saves in goal to conclude the season.
The game didn’t start in Nashville’s favor. Mason Marchment scored just 16 seconds in to give the Stars a 1-0 lead.
That was all the visitors would get, however, as the Preds reeled off five unanswered goals for a 5-1 lead after 40 minutes.
Saros took care of the rest, and the Smashville faithful gave their team a final ovation after the game.
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