Steven Stamkos secures historic 40th goal as Nashville Predators maintain slim playoff hopes after weekend split

Nashville Predators keep wild card dreams alive with a split against Utah and Minnesota. Steven Stamkos hits 40 goals as the playoff race hits the final week.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 12, 2026, 2:14 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Predlines

Stamkos Reaches Elite Milestone In Crucial Victory

The veteran leadership of Steven Stamkos took center stage at Bridgestone Arena as the Predators secured a vital two points against the Minnesota Wild. By scoring his 40th goal of the season, Stamkos moved into a tie with legends Phil Esposito and Brett Hull for the seventh most 40 goal seasons in NHL history. According to league records, the goal also marked his 200th career go ahead tally, placing him in an exclusive group alongside Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby as the only active players to reach that mark.

Defensive Stand Salvages Home Return

While the offense provided the early spark, the victory over Minnesota relied heavily on the goaltending of Justus Annunen. Nashville managed only a single shot on goal during the final period, forcing Annunen to turn aside 10 of 11 Wild attempts in the frame to preserve the lead. Stamkos praised the netminder's preparation and professionalism, noting that Annunen has consistently given the group a chance to win during this high pressure stretch. The win brought Annunen's season total to 10 victories, providing a much needed boost to a team fighting for its postseason life.

Road Struggles In Utah Stymie Momentum

Prior to the home win, Nashville’s playoff trajectory took a hit during a 4-1 loss to the Utah Mammoth. Despite outshooting Utah 30 to 27, the Predators were undone by turnovers and a failure to capitalize on second period momentum. Utah utilized their superior speed to build a 2-0 lead through forty minutes, eventually extending the advantage to four in the third period. Erik Haula provided the lone bright spot for the Predators with a power play goal, but center Ryan O'Reilly admitted the team failed to play the necessary "playoff style" required for success against fast, transition heavy opponents.