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Ducks vs. Predators prediction: Close contest projected after new data released for Thursday's NHL matchup [4/16/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Get Anaheim Ducks vs Nashville Predators predictions for NHL Thursday.
The Nashville Predators will take on the Anaheim Ducks, in what is expected to be a close NHL game, at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday, starting at 8:00 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulations, Dimers' proven NHL model gives an equal chance for both both teams to win the Ducks-Predators matchup.
This article offers a closer look at Thursday's Ducks vs. Predators matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.
Ducks vs. Predators prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using powerful machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Thursday's NHL game between the Ducks and Predators, forming part of our NHL predictions coverage.
Our independent predictive model currently can't split the two teams, giving both the Ducks and Predators a 50% chance of winning the game.
According to our model, the Predators (+1.5) have a 70% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 6.5 goals has a 53% chance of staying under.
Ducks vs. Predators odds
We have researched the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Ducks | Predators |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | -1.5 (+186) | +1.5 (-210) |
| Moneyline | -130 | +110 |
| Total | o6.5 (-106) | u6.5 (-108) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Ducks vs. Predators picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | Predators +1.5 | -210 |
| Moneyline | Predators | +110 |
| Total | Under 6.5 | -108 |
According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Predators to win.
These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.
Ducks vs. Predators player props
Who will score a goal in Ducks vs. Predators?
According to our model, Filip Forsberg is most likely to score an anytime goal in Ducks vs. Predators.
Our projections give Forsberg a 41.0% chance of scoring a goal at Bridgestone Arena, while the star is an 8.8% chance of netting the first goal the game.
Anytime goal scorer predictions
Anaheim Ducks
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Leo Carlsson | 32.3% |
| Cutter Gauthier | 30.0% |
| Troy Terry | 25.3% |
| Mikael Granlund | 23.7% |
| Alex Killorn | 23.4% |
Nashville Predators
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Filip Forsberg | 41.0% |
| Steven Stamkos | 34.0% |
| Jonathan Marchessault | 26.3% |
| Ryan O'Reilly | 23.8% |
| Matthew Wood | 19.5% |
First goal scorer predictions
Anaheim Ducks
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Leo Carlsson | 6.1% |
| Cutter Gauthier | 5.5% |
| Alex Killorn | 4.6% |
| Mikael Granlund | 4.6% |
| Ryan Poehling | 4.0% |
Nashville Predators
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Filip Forsberg | 8.8% |
| Steven Stamkos | 6.3% |
| Jonathan Marchessault | 4.7% |
| Ryan O'Reilly | 4.5% |
| Tyson Jost | 3.4% |
Ducks vs. Predators game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's action between the Predators and Ducks at Bridgestone Arena is scheduled to commence at 8:00 PM ET.
- Who: Anaheim Ducks vs. Nashville Predators
- Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET/5:00PM PT
- Venue: Bridgestone Arena
Conclusion
We predict a close game between the Ducks and Predators on Thursday, with each team having a 50% chance of winning.
Additional tools and information for betting safely can be found in our Responsible Gambling hub.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
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