The Nashville Predators will look to defend home ice when they host the Columbus Blue Jackets in a Thursday night showdown (8:00 PM ET) that could set the tone for both teams' early-season momentum. With both squads eager to make statements in the 2025-26 campaign, this matchup carries extra weight as a measuring stick for two franchises with something to prove. The Predators, playing in front of their raucous Bridgestone Arena crowd, will aim to establish their identity early, while the Blue Jackets—always dangerous when underestimated—will bring their trademark speed and tenacity to Nashville.

While records are still clean slates, the contrast in styles promises fireworks: Columbus' relentless forecheck against Nashville's structured defensive system. Every shift will matter in what could become a chess match between systems—or an explosive offensive display if either team finds early cracks. For fans, this isn't just another October game—it's the first chance to see which team's offseason preparations will translate into on-ice results when the puck drops under the bright lights of Music City.