Game 5 vs Sharks 2016

Lore & Background

Game 5 is etched in Predators lore as a match that had everything: furious comebacks, controversial calls, and a finish that left Bridgestone Arena in stunned silence. The Predators, down 3-1 in the series, roared back from a 3-1 deficit in the third period to force overtime, with Ryan Johansen scoring a dramatic equalizer. But the game is also infamous for a disputed goaltender interference call that nullified a potential Predators goal earlier, a decision that still sparks debate among fans. The overtime period was a blur of end-to-end action, with both teams trading chances. Ultimately, a misplay by the Predators' defense allowed Joe Pavelski to score the series-clinching goal, sending the Sharks to the Western Conference Final. For Nashville, it was a bitter end to a season of promise, but the fight they showed in Game 5 became a symbol of the team's never-say-die identity. Years later, this game is remembered as a classic of the 2016 playoffs, a testament to the intensity of the rivalry between two teams that would meet again in future postseasons. It also marked the end of an era for the Predators, as they would retool and return stronger in subsequent years.

In Their Own Story

The air in Bridgestone Arena was thick with desperation—so thick you could taste the salt from tears not yet shed. The Predators, backs against the wall, had clawed back from a 3-1 deficit in the third period, thanks to a thunderous slap shot from Ryan Johansen that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The building shook with the roar of gold-clad fans, believing in a miracle. Overtime began, and the tension was palpable—every shift felt like a lifetime, every puck battle a war. Then, a turnover in the neutral zone, a quick pass, and Joe Pavelski was alone in the slot. His shot beat Pekka Rinne, and the arena fell silent—not the silence of defeat, but the stunned hush of a dream dying mid-breath. The Sharks celebrated on the ice as the Predators skated off, heads bowed, leaving behind a memory that would haunt and inspire for years.

Reader's Guide

The occasion was Game 5 of the 2016 Western Conference Semifinals, with the Predators facing elimination. The Sharks had taken a 3-1 series lead and looked to close out the series in Nashville. The game started with San Jose jumping to a 3-1 lead, but the Predators fought back. A controversial no-goal call on a play where the puck appeared to cross the line but was waved off due to goaltender interference added to the drama. Nashville rallied, scoring twice in the third period to tie the game at 4-4, with Johansen's goal sending the game to overtime. In overtime, the Sharks capitalized on a defensive lapse. A failed clearance by the Predators led to a quick passing play, and Pavelski buried the winner. The goal ended the series and the Predators' season. The game is remembered for its emotional rollercoaster, the disputed call, and the sheer effort from Nashville. It remains a defining moment in the franchise's history, a painful but proud chapter that showcased the team's heart even in defeat.

Did You Know?

• Joe Pavelski's overtime goal was his second of the game, making him the first Sharks player to score multiple goals in a series-clinching game since 2011.
• Ryan Johansen's game-tying goal in the third period was his first playoff goal as a Predator, acquired in a trade earlier that season.
• The controversial no-goal call involved a puck that appeared to cross the line but was ruled no goal due to incidental contact with Sharks goaltender Martin Jones.
• This was the first time the Predators had forced overtime in an elimination game since 2012.