Apr 19, 2024 - Sports

Nashville Predators begin Stanley Cup playoff chase

Nate Rau

Gustav Nyquist #14 of the Nashville Predators celebrates his second period goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 15, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. — Nashville Predators team members during a game this month. Photo: Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images

The Nashville Predators surged past preseason expectations and reached the Stanley Cup playoffs, where they'll meet the Vancouver Canucks in the first round, beginning with Game 1 at 9pm Sunday.

Why it matters: This was supposed to be a retooling season under new general manager Barry Trotz and coach Andrew Brunette.

Instead the Predators went on a torrid streak of 18 consecutive games without a regulation loss to qualify for the playoffs.

State of play: Nashville is back in the playoffs after missing the postseason last year for the first time since 2014.

Yes, but: The reward for the somewhat surprising accomplishment is a daunting series against the Canucks, who won all three regular season matchups against the Predators.

Vancouver has the home-ice advantage for the best-of-seven series.

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Nashville Predators begin Stanley Cup playoff chase

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