The Wild lost to the Predators in March but since then they have been on a roll, winning 9 of 10 and holding opponents to under 2 goals average in those victories. This stretch included victories vs heavyweights, Carolina, Washington and Colorado. Their sole loss was to Pittsburgh in OT. They made very wise pickups at the trade deadline, and with two solid goal-tenders, are playing playoff-style hockey early.

The Preds have been uneven lately, losing 3 of 5 and beating only a couple of B sides. They have been giving up too many goals, especially to good teams. Saros has played a ton this season, and his save percentage has started to slip lately. The Predators are barely hanging on to a wild card spot and will be motivated, but I am wagering on the Wild. They are playing the right way for success, and even home ice will not rescue Nashville. Take the Wild to win.