Four different Nashville Predators players posted three-point performances in an 8-2 win over the San Jose Sharks that saw the Predators extend their point streak to a franchise-high 15 games (13-0-2).
One of those players is defenseman Ryan McDonagh, who has been a key contributor both on and off the ice during Nashville's historic run. With three assists versus San Jose — his first three-point performance of the season — McDonagh matched a season-high three-game point streak and logged his second consecutive multipoint game.
The veteran blueliner also logged a team-leading 24:50 of ice time in the win and posted a career-high +6 rating.
“He probably could have been +9,” Predators head coach Andrew Brunette said. “He's such a big part of our group, with the leadership. And he looks enthused to be playing hockey right now, he's enjoying the group and he's such a great player... and nobody really sees the leadership, but what he brings in the room is pretty good.”
McDonagh has been an integral piece on Nashville's blueline this season, stepping up his offense in addition to his penalty-killing and elite defensive play. After posting 20 points in 71 games last season with the Predators, McDonagh already has 28 points through 62 games in the 2023-24 campaign.
As the Predators look to solidify their playoff positioning down the stretch, they will be relying on McDonagh and the rest of Nashville's veteran core to be the driving force.
"Your veterans basically keep you afloat through hard times," Brunette said. "They teach the young kids what it's like to be a pro. And when you've got great veteran leadership like we have , I think we're starting to reap the rewards of it with our young guys and with our whole group."
McDonagh and the Predators will look to extend their point streak to 16 games with a visit to the Florida Panthers on March 21.
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