The Predators outplayed the Penguins in Game 1 of these Stanley Cup Finals this past Monday, but lost, 5-3, despite holding Pittsburgh without a shot on goal for 37 minutes.

Nashville has a winning road record during the Stanley Cup playoffs going 5-4. All of their away playoff defeats were by one goal, or two goals when they gave up an empty-netter.

The Predators have the better defense and I would take Pekka Rinne over Matt Murray in goal. Rinne had an off-game in Game 1, but entered these finals red-hot carrying a postseason-best 1.70 goals against average. I like Murray, but he lacks Rinne's experience and pedigree. Rinne is a proven elite goalie, a three-time Vezina Trophy finalist.

I can see the Predators holding the Penguins in check during this Game 2, while producing enough offense to win. Colton Sissons has proven he can be counted on in replacing injured Ryan Johansen and Mike Fisher is back from injury. So I'm not worried about the Predators' center play.

Note, too, that the Penguins are 2-5 the past seven times following a victory.