Predators Blank Ducks 5-0 Behind Annunen's 43-Save Shutout

Nashville goaltender Justus Annunen records third career shutout in dominant win over Anaheim.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:04am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant neon colors and rapid brushstrokes to capture the intensity of a hockey goaltender making a game-saving stop, with only the puck and net remaining in focus.Nashville's Justus Annunen's stellar goaltending performance fuels a dominant Predators win over the Ducks.Anaheim Today

Justus Annunen turned aside all 43 shots he faced to record his third career NHL shutout, leading the Nashville Predators to a 5-0 road victory over the struggling Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night.

Why it matters

The shutout performance by Annunen continues his strong start to the season and helps the Predators maintain their position in the tight Western Conference playoff race. For the Ducks, the loss extends their losing streak to six games as they continue to struggle to find consistency this year.

The details

Annunen's 43 saves were just one shy of his career high, as he turned aside every shot the Ducks fired his way. The Predators provided ample offensive support, scoring five unanswered goals to cruise to the victory. Nashville got goals from five different skaters, including a pair from Mikael Granlund.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.

The players

Justus Annunen

The Nashville Predators' starting goaltender, who recorded his third career NHL shutout with a 43-save performance.

Mikael Granlund

A forward for the Nashville Predators who scored two goals in the team's 5-0 win over the Anaheim Ducks.

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What they’re saying

“Justus was outstanding tonight. He made some huge saves early to keep us in it, and the guys did a great job supporting him with some timely goals.”

— John Hynes, Head Coach, Nashville Predators

What’s next

The Predators will look to build on this dominant win when they host the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday, April 10th. The Ducks will try to snap their losing streak when they welcome the Tampa Bay Lightning to Anaheim on Saturday, April 12th.

The takeaway

Annunen's stellar goaltending and the Predators' balanced scoring attack proved too much for the struggling Ducks, as Nashville continued its push for a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference.