Luke Evangelista’s decisive goal at 9:18 of the third period secured a thrilling 5-3 victory for the Nashville Predators against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night. Evangelista showcased his skill by outmaneuvering defenceman Morgan Rielly and executing a perfect backhanded shot to beat goalie Joseph Woll.
In addition to Evangelista’s pivotal goal, Erik Haula, Adam Wilsby, Steven Stamkos, and Cole Smith also found the back of the net for the Predators, with goaltender Juuse Saros making 19 crucial saves. This win marks the Predators’ success in two out of their last three games.
Meanwhile, Bobby McMann contributed a goal and an assist for Toronto, alongside goals from Nicolas Roy and John Tavares. Despite Woll’s 29 saves, the Maple Leafs suffered their fourth loss in the last five games.
The game saw Roy opening the scoring early in the first period, followed by Haula’s equalizer on a power play in the second. Wilsby and Tavares exchanged goals before Stamkos sealed the victory with an empty-netter.
Looking ahead, the Maple Leafs will face the Dallas Stars in their next game on Sunday.