The Nashville Predators defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs by a score of 5-3 on Saturday night, securing a vital two points in front of their home crowd. The Predators scored three goals in the third period to seal the victory, including two empty-netters in the final minutes.

The Maple Leafs started strong, with Nicolas Roy tipping in a shot past Predators goalie Juuse Saros just 1:32 into the game, assisted by Bobby McMann. However, the Predators responded in the second period when Erik Haula redirected a Roman Josi shot on the power play. The Maple Leafs regained the lead later in the second period when John Tavares broke a seven-game goalless streak with a deflection off his skate. Matias Maccelli earned his first point since November 22 with an assist on the play. With just 34 seconds remaining in the second, Adam Wilsby scored his first goal of the year, tying the game at 2-2.

Luke Evangelista scored what would be the game-winning goal at 9:18 of the third period. He skated down the right side, maneuvered around Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly, and lifted a backhand shot over the shoulder of goaltender Joseph Woll. Steven Stamkos scored an empty-net goal to extend the lead. Bobby McMann brought the Leafs within one goal with just over a minute left, but Cole Smith sealed the win with another empty-net goal.

Juuse Saros stopped 19 of 22 shots for the Predators. Joseph Woll turned away 29 of 32 shots for the Maple Leafs.

The Predators stifled Toronto's offense for much of the game, blocking shots and limiting scoring opportunities. The Maple Leafs struggled to maintain their lead, ultimately losing their fourth game in the last five.