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.

NHL: San Jose Sharks have won just 13 of 26 games in which they’ve led or been tied going into the third period

The Boston Bruins and the San Jose Sharks face off in a non-conference matchup on Monday, Jan. 20.

The Nashville Predators (17-22-7) hit the ice against the San Jose Sharks (14-30-6) in NHL play on Thursday, starting at 10:30 PM ET at SAP Center at San Jose and broadcast on ESPN+. The Predators rank 14th while the Sharks are 16th in the Western Conference.

Jonathan Marchessault and William Eklund will be two of the best players to keep an eye on when the Nashville Predators meet the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center at San Jose on Thursday, January 23 at 10:30 PM ET.

Rutta's first-period goal gives Sharks early lead over Red Wings Sharks defenseman Jan Rutta's second goal of the 2024-25 NHL season gives San Jose an early lead over the Detroit