Tip: Can the Nashville Predators tie the series against the Vancouver Canucks?

It has been a closely contested series between Nashville and Vancouver where slim margins have made the difference. Vancouver entered the series as favorites, but Nashville has definitely shown that they can challenge and have been the better team in several games.

Something's Off in Vancouver

Quinn Hughes, the star in the defensive lineup, isn't himself—it's been speculated that he isn't fully healthy. And that's the case with the entire Canucks' offense; they seem to have lost their edge. Much of this is due to Elias Pettersson also not finding his groove. Instead, J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser have ensured that Vancouver is still up 3-2 in the series. The roles could very well have been reversed heading into Game Six.

Not only have the Canucks lost momentum, but they are also dealing with a tough injury to star goalie Thatcher Demko. The Canadians have had to rely on Casey DeSmith, who was also injured but has now returned, and the third-string goalie, Arturs Silovs. Not ideal in a series that is finely balanced.

Nashville Tightens Up

Even though Vancouver leads the series, it is the Nashville Predators who have been most impressive. The team has managed to push Vancouver back game after game, keeping them to extremely few shots on goal. After five games, Vancouver has only managed to get off 91 shots on Juuse Saros, and the Predators have ensured that Vancouver struggles to create danger.

It is also not surprising that the series has really low expected goals (xG) figures for both sides. It's close and tight between the teams, but the feeling is that the home team has the advantage as these two clash again at Bridgestone Arena.

Betting Tips and Conclusion

Vancouver is in a tough spot. While Nashville isn't completely dominating the play, the momentum feels like it's on their side, especially given the precarious goalie situation for the Canucks. There's a significant quality gap between Demko and DeSmith, even though the latter is a decent goalie.

The last time the teams met at Bridgestone Arena, Nashville closed as clear favorites, 2.10-2.20, which was probably an overreaction. But now getting them at 2.40 with a strong performance backing them only strengthens my belief that the Predators are the right side to back!

Nashville Predators FT @ +140 on bet365!