By Ron Wynn
NASHVILLE, TN — An otherwise encouraging Canadian road trip took a downturn Saturday, as the Nashville Predators failed to hold a two-goal lead and dropped a 3-2 decision to the Edmonton Oilers. They had already won the two previous games, and another victory would have vaulted the Predators into the second wild card spot.
Things started well. Craig Smith opened the scoring at the midpoint of the opening period. Then Nick Bonino continued his season-long standout play, scoring his 17th in the second period. The Predators seemed to be in good shape ahead 2-0.
But that didn’t prove the case as Edmonton rallied, keyed by the game tying and winning goals from Leon Draisaitl. Alex Chiasson also scored for the Oilers on a power play. Juuse Saros was in goal for a third straight game, and had 33 saves.
The Predators remain only a couple of points out of the playoff hunt. They ended the road trip Monday night in Vancouver. The Predators return home against the Islanders Thursday night.
