30 Facts About Predators Vs. Blues

The Rivalry Begins

The Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues have a storied rivalry in the NHL. This intense competition has led to some unforgettable moments on the ice. Here are some fascinating facts about their matchups.

1. The Predators and Blues first faced off on October 10, 1998. The Blues won 4-2.

2. Nashville Predators joined the NHL in 1998, while the St. Louis Blues have been around since 1967.

3. The Blues have won one Stanley Cup, in 2019. The Predators are still chasing their first.

4. Bridgestone Arena, home of the Predators, is known for its loud and passionate fans, often creating a hostile environment for visiting teams.

5. The Blues play at the Enterprise Center, which has a seating capacity of 18,096 for hockey games.

Memorable Moments

Throughout their history, these teams have created some unforgettable moments that fans still talk about.

6. In the 2017 playoffs, the Predators defeated the Blues in the second round, advancing to their first-ever Western Conference Final.

7. The Blues' Vladimir Tarasenko scored a hat trick against the Predators on November 21, 2014.

8. Pekka Rinne, the Predators' legendary goalie, has had multiple shutouts against the Blues.

9. The Blues' Ryan O'Reilly has been a consistent thorn in the Predators' side, often leading his team in points during their matchups.

10. The Predators' Roman Josi scored a game-winning goal in overtime against the Blues on February 25, 2020.

Player Connections

Some players have worn both jerseys, adding another layer to this rivalry.

11. T.J. Oshie, now with the Washington Capitals, started his career with the Blues and has had memorable games against the Predators.

12. Mike Fisher, a former Predators captain, often found himself in heated battles with the Blues.

13. Paul Kariya played for both the Predators and Blues during his illustrious career.

14. Wade Redden, a defenseman, had stints with both teams, bringing his veteran presence to each locker room.

15. Carter Hutton, a goaltender, played for both the Predators and Blues, providing solid backup goaltending.

Fan Engagement

The fans of both teams are known for their dedication and enthusiasm, making every game between these two teams electric.

16. Predators fans are famous for their "Smashville" chants, creating an intimidating atmosphere.

17. Blues fans have a tradition of singing "When the Blues Go Marching In" after victories.

18. Both teams have passionate fan bases that travel well, often filling the opposing team's arena with their colors.

19. The Predators' mascot, Gnash, and the Blues' mascot, Louie, often engage in playful antics during games.

20. Social media battles between Predators and Blues fans are common, with each side trying to outdo the other in support of their team.

Statistical Showdowns

Numbers don't lie, and the stats between these two teams tell a compelling story.

21. The Blues have a slightly better all-time record against the Predators, with more wins in head-to-head matchups.

22. The Predators have a higher winning percentage in home games against the Blues compared to away games.

23. Power play efficiency often plays a crucial role in their matchups, with both teams having strong special teams units.

24. Penalty minutes are usually high in these games, reflecting the physical nature of their rivalry.

25. The Predators' defense, led by players like Roman Josi and Ryan Ellis, often stifles the Blues' offensive efforts.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the rivalry between the Predators and Blues shows no signs of slowing down.

26. Both teams have promising young players who are expected to keep the rivalry intense for years to come.

27. The Predators' Eeli Tolvanen and the Blues' Jordan Kyrou are two young stars to watch in future matchups.

28. Coaching strategies will continue to evolve, with both teams looking to gain an edge in their head-to-head battles.

29. The NHL's expansion and realignment could lead to more frequent and meaningful games between these two teams.

30. As both teams strive for success, their rivalry will remain a highlight of the NHL season, captivating fans and creating unforgettable moments.

Final Whistle

The Predators vs. Blues rivalry is packed with thrills and intensity. From nail-biting games to legendary players, this matchup has given fans countless memorable moments. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, making each game unpredictable and exciting. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, there's always something to look forward to when these teams hit the ice.

Key players like Roman Josi and Ryan O'Reilly have left their mark, and the strategies employed by both teams keep evolving. The rivalry isn't just about the games; it's about the passion and dedication of the fans who support their teams through thick and thin. So, next time the Predators and Blues face off, you'll know the rich history and fierce competition that make this rivalry one of the best in hockey.