Three keys to the Ducks' 3-2 loss to the Predators

Three keys to the Ducks’ 3-2 loss to the Predators

1/8

Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler is checked by Predators winger James Neal during the first period of Game 1.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

2/8

Predators winger Mike Fisher battles Ducks center Ryan Getzlaf (15) and defenseman Josh Manson for the puck during the first period of Game 1.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

3/8

Predators right wing James Neal reacts after scoring against Ducks goalie John Gibson and left wing Andrew Cogliano only 35 seconds into the game Friday night.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

4/8

Ducks center Ryan Kesler sends Predators center Craig Smith to the ice during a scrum in front of the net during Game 1.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

5/8

Ducks winger Corey Perry knocks Predators winger James Neal off his skates during the second period of Game 1.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

6/8

Ducks center Ryan Getzlaf absorbs a hard check from Predators forward Paul Gaustad during the second period.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

7/8

Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf mixes it up with Predators defenseman Mattias Ekholm seconds after a 3-2 loss to Nashville in Game 1 of their playoff series.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

8/8

Ducks and Predators players try to fight seconds after the conclusion of Game 1 on Friday night.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

By Curtis Zupke

April 15, 2016 11 PM PT

Taking a look at the three keys to Game 1 of the Anaheim Ducks-Nashville Predators series:

1) It didn’t result in a win, but the Ducks prevailed in the faceoff circle, 42-27, in an anticipated matchup of centers. Nashville’s top two centers, Ryan Johansen and Mike Ribeiro lost 18 of 27 faceoffs.

2) Special teams are expected to be crucial in the series, but the Predators won although the Ducks held them scoreless on two power plays and scored on a two-man advantage.

3) Nashville goalie Pekka Rinne shook off a shaky start and backstopped the Predators to outduel Ducks goalie John Gibson. Rinne made 27 saves and Gibson made 31.

Three keys to the Ducks’ 3-2 loss to the Predators

More to Read

More From the Los Angeles Times