The Nashville Predators find themselves outside playoff contention as they head into the All-Star break following a defeat to the Kings.

The issues on offense continued on for the Predators in a pivotal loss to the Kings, pushing them outside of the wildcard picture at the All Star break.

Filip Forsberg netted his 24th goal of the season, and Philip Tomasino added his 7th goal, yet it proved insufficient for the Nashville Predators in a crucial wildcard race against the Los Angeles Kings. The Predators, unable to surpass three goals in a game since their 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars on January 12th, have posted a 3-5-1 record over the subsequent nine games.

Despite unleashing a barrage of shots on goal against David Rittich, the Predators’ offense fell short in capitalizing and completing a third-period comeback against the Kings. The power play, going 0-for-4, emerged as the decisive factor in the final score. Although the Kings added an empty-net goal, the Predators’ inability to convert on any of their four power play opportunities ultimately led to another defeat.

David Rittich Sends Preds to All Star Break with Another Crushing Loss

Rittich concluded the game with 40 saves and a 2.86 Goals Saved Above Expected, outperforming Juuse Saros, who recorded a -1.60 Goals Saved Above Expected and an 87 percent save percentage.

The Predators now find themselves ranked 20th in the NHL in goals per game at 2.96. This figure is only marginally higher than last year under John Hynes when the team averaged 2.72 goals per game. Consequently, the primary focus during the All-Star break is how the team can reverse its lackluster offensive performance. Questions arise about whether restructuring the forward lines, possibly altering the once-unstoppable top line, is necessary.

Criticism of Juuse Saros, although harsh, remains fair. He has struggled to be the reliable neutralizer he was in the past, and his performance has been, at best, average without consistent offensive support.

Looking ahead to the trade deadline, even though it is over a month away, General Manager Barry Trotz appears to be actively seeking trade partners. The goal is likely to unload some 2024 free agents and create roster space for potential call-ups from the Milwaukee Admirals.

Comparing the current situation to last year, the Predators, with a 24-18-6 record and 54 points, find themselves in a similar position entering the All-Star break. However, the anticipation is for more selling in the weeks ahead. Trotz seems poised to make strategic moves, considering almost everyone on the roster, including Saros, could be available for trade. While staying in the playoff race after the trade deadline would be a bonus, the evident need for substantial team development is unmistakable.