Steven Stamkos, Gustav Nyquist, and Tommy Novak scored for the Predators (18-22-7), who have won five straight. Brady Skjei had three assists, and Justus Annunen made 30 saves.

San Jose Sharks' Yaroslav Askarov, the Nashville Predators' top draft pick in 2020, spoke to media about facing his old team on Thursday.

Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Today, like every day, Last Word on Hockey looks at the games happening and gives our predictions for each. We’ll also break down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play a part.