Predators Face Season-Defining 5-Game Road Swing

Nashville holds slim playoff lead over LA Kings with 8 games left

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:48pm

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With just 8 games remaining in the regular season, the Nashville Predators currently hold a slim 1-point lead over the Los Angeles Kings for the final Western Conference Wildcard playoff spot. The Preds will now embark on a crucial 5-game road trip, including two key matchups against the Kings, that could make or break their postseason hopes.

Why it matters

The Predators are looking to return to the playoffs after missing out last season. This upcoming road swing, including pivotal games against a direct playoff rival in the Kings, will largely determine if they can clinch a postseason berth.

The details

The Predators' upcoming 5-game road trip features crucial matchups against Western Conference teams fighting for playoff positioning. Head coach Andrew Brunette acknowledged the challenge, but said the team is ready for the pressure of this time of year. Star forward Filip Forsberg called it 'the biggest one of the season' as the Preds try to solidify their playoff spot.

  • The Predators' 5-game road trip begins on Thursday, March 31st.
  • The Preds play the Kings twice over the next 3 games, with the first matchup starting after 9:30pm CT on March 31st.

The players

Andrew Brunette

Head coach of the Nashville Predators.

Filip Forsberg

Star forward for the Nashville Predators.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, it's a challenge. But, this time of year, it doesn't matter where you play. Guys who've been here through playoffs, a lot of times there's more pressure than on the road.”

— Andrew Brunette, Head coach

“A great challenge. Great road trip. Obviously, something we've been looking forward to, especially coming down the stretch and seeing how the standings are unfolding. Five really big games starting Thursday with arguably the biggest one of the season.”

— Filip Forsberg, Forward

What’s next

The Predators' next game is on Thursday, March 31st against the Los Angeles Kings, with the puck dropping after 9:30pm CT. This will be the first of two key matchups between the Preds and Kings over the next three games.

The takeaway

This upcoming 5-game road trip represents a make-or-break stretch for the Nashville Predators' playoff hopes. With a slim 1-point lead over the LA Kings for the final Western Conference Wildcard spot, the Preds must find a way to win on the road against several tough opponents to secure their postseason berth.