Matthew Wood Scores First Career Hat Trick in Predators' Loss to Rangers

Matthew Wood was the lone offensive bright spot for the Nashville Predators in their 6-3 loss to the New York Rangers, notching his first career hat trick. Wood scored all three goals for the Predators, including one on the power play, and now leads the team with four power-play points. Despite Wood's efforts, the Predators suffered their fifth consecutive loss. Goaltender Juuse Saros allowed five goals on 12 shots before being replaced by Justus Annunen, who stopped five of six shots. The Rangers' offense, which had been struggling, found new life against Nashville, with goals from Mika Zibanejad, Vladislav Gavrikov, Alex Lafreniere, Artemi Panarin (2), and Will Cuylle. The Predators' defense struggled, giving up breakaways and experiencing defensive lapses. The loss felt like a blowout for Nashville, who are now heading to Stockholm, Sweden, for the 2025 NHL Global Series against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Wood, a 20-year-old rookie, continues to be a focal point for the anemic Predators offense, but the team needs more support to secure wins.