Avalanche Edged by Predators in Dramatic Shootout Finish

Cale Makar's late-game heroics not enough as Colorado falls in nail-biter

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:20am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the intense action of a hockey game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives capturing the high-stakes drama of the final moments.A cubist interpretation of the dramatic final moments in the Avalanche-Predators matchup, where even a late-game comeback couldn't secure the win.Today in Nashville

The Colorado Avalanche battled back from a late deficit to force overtime against the Nashville Predators, but ultimately fell 4-3 in a shootout at Bridgestone Arena. Cale Makar's dramatic game-tying goal with just 8 seconds left in regulation capped a thrilling third-period comeback, but the Avalanche were unable to complete the rally in the extra session.

Why it matters

This hard-fought loss highlights the fine margins in high-stakes NHL games, where even a late-game surge isn't always enough to secure victory. The Avalanche's ability to earn a point despite the setback underscores their resilience, while the Predators' gritty team effort and stellar goaltending from Juuse Saros proved the difference.

The details

With the Avalanche trailing 3-2 late in the third period, Makar unleashed a power-play wrist shot from the point that beat Saros glove-side to tie the game at 3-3 and force overtime. Nathan MacKinnon, playing in his 900th NHL game, recorded two assists for Colorado. Saros made 39 saves for Nashville, but had to leave the game briefly after a collision in the shootout round. Brady Skjei, Jonathan Marchessault, and Reid Schaefer scored for the Predators in regulation.

  • Makar's game-tying goal came with just 8 seconds remaining in the third period.
  • MacKinnon's two assists marked his 50th point of the season.

The players

Cale Makar

Defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche who scored the dramatic late-game equalizer to force overtime.

Nathan MacKinnon

Center for the Colorado Avalanche who recorded two assists in his 900th NHL game.

Juuse Saros

Goaltender for the Nashville Predators who made 39 saves but had to briefly leave the game after a collision in the shootout round.

Brady Skjei

Defenseman for the Nashville Predators who scored the go-ahead goal in the third period.

Jared Bednar

Head coach of the Colorado Avalanche who emphasized the importance of following concussion protocols even when it disrupts the game flow.

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What they’re saying

“We must prioritize player safety, even if it means disrupting the game flow. The officials and concussion spotter made the right call, and we have to adapt to those situations.”

— Jared Bednar, Head Coach, Colorado Avalanche

“Our fast, connected play and crisp passing were keys to our success tonight. Getting that goal was a relief, and I hope it can spark some momentum going forward.”

— Brady Skjei, Defenseman, Nashville Predators

What’s next

The Avalanche will look to bounce back in their next game against the Dallas Stars on April 15th, while the Predators will host the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 17th.

The takeaway

This game showcased the fine line between victory and defeat in the NHL, where even a dramatic late-game comeback isn't always enough to secure the win. Both teams demonstrated resilience and grit, but it was the Predators' strong team play and Saros' goaltending that ultimately made the difference.