An intense Central division matchup is coming up soon, as the fourth-ranked Nashville Predators (43-26-4) take on the second-ranked Colorado Avalanche (46-21-6) for the third battle this season on Saturday, March 30 at 6:00 PM ET at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. The Avalanche are moneyline favorites at -175.

The Predators recently had their six-game win streak snapped in their latest matchup. This was an 8-4 showing against the Arizona Coyotes, as they gave up four goals in the second period to put them out of reach.

Their latest matchup was a bit uncharacteristic of them on the defensive end. So far, they boast a road record of 22-11-3 and will likely not allow so many goals in this matchup. Filip Forsberg currently leads with 41 goals and 83 points.

The Predators are averaging 3.26 goals a game on 31.7 shot attempts. Their power plays have been a coin flip, as they have scored and allowed 50 goals each. They showcase a power play percentage at 20.9.

On defense, they allow 2.99 goals on 30.2 shots a game. They can make a difference in their penalty kill percentage, which is at 77.1, but will need to improve upon that here.

The Avalanche are 3-2 in their last five games and have lost their most recent two. Their previous defeat was a 3-2 shootout against the New York Rangers and marked their second game in a row where they lost by one goal.

They are at their best when playing at home, with a record of 28-7-1. Nathan MacKinnon will be a key player to watch, as he leads them with 123 points, 45 goals, and 78 assists. The Predators do not really have an answer for him, or much of a strong offensive threat on paper to overcome their defense.

The Avalanche’s offense is strong at 3.70 goals a game with 33.0 shots. They have an excellent power play percentage at 24.3, as they have scored 61 goals and have allowed 42.

Their defense slows teams down to 2.95 goals on 29.5 shots a game. Their penalty kill percentage is a bit above the Predators’ at 81.9, which can influence the game in their favor. Looking at their offense, they have a good margin of victory.

MyBookie provides you with the best NHL odds, which currently have the Colorado Avalanche as favorites to succeed at home. In both meetings this season, the Predators have won in their home arena and recently at the beginning of this month 5-1. Despite the Predators winning in both meetings so far, look for the Avalanche to have a strong offensive performance.