Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Today, like every day, Last Word on Hockey looks at the games happening and gives our predictions for each. We’ll also break down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play a part.

Seemingly on their way to a rare comfortable victory and a feel-good ending to a five-game road trip, the Sharks, up by four midway through the second period, instead lifted their foot off the gas and allowed the Nashville Predators to take control.