3 Things: Nashville Predators @ Winnipeg Jets: 2/27/18

The Nashville Predators and Winnipeg Jets will face-off in a Central Division game with a pivotal two points on the line in the playoff race.

Here are three things to watch for in the game:

1.) EVEN STRENGTH PLAY - NASHVILLE

If the Preds want to have a shot at winning this game and gaining an important two points then they will need to win the even strength play. The Predators have relied on their power play at times to get them going, but the Jets have a really good penalty kill so their play at even strength is going to be important. Nashville does have a decent amount of  even strength goals so far on the year so they can play while at 5-on-5. The Preds will need to play a solid defensive game, yet have some sustained offensive zone pressure. Nashville should establish a cycle game and a forecheck game to help win the battle at even strength.

2.) NASHVILLE D- WINNIPEG 

The Jets are going to have to keep an eye on the Predators defense since they do like to join the play in the offensive zone. Nashville defense has 150 points on the season, which accounts for 31% of the total offense. The Predators defense will also use the stretch pass as a way to get out of their own zone and spring the forwards into the offensive zone. The Preds defense is lead in points by P.K. Subban and Roman Josi so Winnipeg should be aware of when they are on the ice.

3.) GOALTENDING- NASHVILLE & WINNIPEG

The goaltending is going to be a big key to this game since both teams will get their scoring chances with the talent on the rosters. The goalies are going to have to make the easy save and the spectacular save. If a soft goal is given up then they need to shake it off and keep their focus on the game. The goalies could potentially steal the game for one of theses teams with two huge points on the line.