Macklin Celebrini's late goals secure victory for Sharks, ending lengthy losing streak against Predators
Category: Sports
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In a thrilling showdown at Bridgestone Arena on April 13, 2026, the San Jose Sharks defeated the Nashville Predators 3-2, halting a 15-game losing streak against their opponents. The loss proved costly for Nashville, which was vying for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
The game began with Igor Chernyshov netting a power-play goal for the Sharks, setting the tone early. Nashville's Luke Evangelista responded with two goals, bringing his season total to 12. Evangelista's efforts, though commendable, were not enough to secure the win for the Predators.
Macklin Celebrini, who has emerged as a standout player for San Jose, scored twice in the third period, including an empty-netter with just 1:45 remaining. This brought his season total to 44 goals, a remarkable achievement that ties him for second-most multi-point games in a single season for the Sharks, behind only Jonathan Cheechoo's record.
With the Predators' defeat, the idle Anaheim Ducks clinched a playoff berth, marking their return to the postseason for the first time since 2018. The loss left Nashville one point behind the Los Angeles Kings, who currently occupy the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference.
Entering this penultimate game of the regular season, the Predators were riding high on a recent 2-1 victory against the Minnesota Wild. Predators forward Matthew Wood had expressed optimism about the team's playoff chances, stating, "We've gotten to a position where we have a chance, with two games left, to sneak in. I don't think anyone would have said that a couple months ago. It's been a credit to all the guys in this room. It's been a lot of fun." Head Coach Andrew Brunette echoed Wood's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of winning in the final stretch of the season.
As the game progressed, Nashville's hopes of clinching a playoff spot began to dwindle. Justus Annunen, the Predators' goaltender, managed 20 saves, but the Sharks' relentless offense proved too much to handle. Alex Nedeljkovic, in goal for San Jose, recorded 25 saves, helping to secure the win for his team.
In the aftermath of the game, the Predators faced mounting pressure as they prepared for their final matchup against the Anaheim Ducks. With only one game remaining in the regular season, the Predators must win to have any hope of making the playoffs.
In terms of individual performances, Filip Forsberg led the Predators with 73 points this season, including 38 goals and 35 assists. Ryan O'Reilly also made his mark, leading the team in assists with 48. Meanwhile, the Sharks were buoyed by Celebrini's stellar performance, which has solidified his status as a key player for the franchise.
The stakes were high on this night, as both teams were fighting for their playoff lives. The Sharks, who had suffered a three-game losing streak leading into the matchup, needed this win to keep their postseason hopes alive. The victory ended their lengthy losing streak against the Predators and reignited their chances of making the playoffs.
As the regular season draws to a close, the focus now shifts to the upcoming playoffs. The Predators, currently sitting on 86 points, are just one point behind the Kings, who have three games remaining. Nashville's chances of making the playoffs hinge on their performance in the final game against the Ducks.
Looking ahead, the Predators will need to channel their frustrations from this loss into a strong performance against Anaheim. The Ducks have already secured their playoff spot, but Nashville's desperation could make for a thrilling contest.
The Predators' next game is set for Thursday, April 15, 2026, against the Ducks. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Nashville can pull off a victory and keep their playoff hopes alive. As the NHL regular season winds down, every game counts, and the Predators must leave it all on the ice if they wish to extend their season.
With the playoff picture becoming clearer, the excitement and tension will only continue to build in the coming days. The Predators and their fans are hoping for a dramatic turnaround in their final game, making it a must-watch event for hockey enthusiasts.