The Nashville Predators are heading into a busy week, packed with opportunities to solidify their position as they approach the new year. Here's a look at their schedule and some of the major storylines to follow.

Schedule Ahead

Following a 5-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday, December 20, 2025, the Predators face a quick turnaround as they host the New York Rangers on Sunday, December 21. This marks their final home game of the 2025 calendar year. The Predators are then scheduled to play on December 23, 2025, and December 27, 2025. To close out the year, Nashville will travel to face the Vegas Golden Knights on December 31.

Evangelista's Rise

Luke Evangelista continues to impress, becoming a key component of the Predators' offense. In the recent game against the Maple Leafs, Evangelista scored a highlight-reel goal, breaking a 2-2 tie in the third period. He skillfully maneuvered around Toronto defenseman Morgan Rielly before lifting a backhand shot over goaltender Joseph Woll. This season, Evangelista has been playing on the first line alongside Ryan O'Reilly and Filip Forsberg. Through 33 games, the 23-year-old forward has accumulated 24 points. Overall, Evangelista has five goals and 19 assists this season.

Marchessault's Injury

Jonathan Marchessault is currently day-to-day with a lower-body injury. The injury forced him to miss Saturday's game against the Maple Leafs. This season, the 34-year-old winger has already missed five games due to lower-body issues. In 28 games played, Marchessault has seven goals and three assists. The Predators will be hoping for a quick return from Marchessault, who signed a five-year, $27.5 million contract with Nashville on July 1, 2024.

Predators' Recent Performance

Nashville has been showing signs of improvement, winning eight of their last 12 games. In their last five games, they are 3-2-0, averaging four goals per game while allowing three. The team's power play has also been a key factor, with a power-play goal scored in six of their last seven games. According to forward Michael Bunting, the team has been responding well.

Looking Ahead

The Predators' upcoming schedule presents a mix of challenges and opportunities. The game against the Rangers is the second and final meeting between the two teams this season. In their previous encounter, the Rangers emerged victorious with a 6-3 win. The team will then face a tough test against the Vegas Golden Knights on New Year's Eve.