NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Let’s start with deconstructing the myth of Game 1 of this highly anticipated second-round playoff series between the NHL’s two top teams, the Nashville Predators and Winnipeg Jets.



The Jets did not “steal” Game 1.



They did not “hang on” for a 4-1 win.



This was not a case of the Predators just not getting enough puck luck – although they certainly didn’t have much of that.



Yes, the stats seemed to support this narrative, supported the notion that this was a game the Predators could have just as easily won. Heck, some of the Preds players said they felt they played well enough to win, implying that they were somehow victimized by misfortune as opposed to losing to a team that was hungrier, more opportunistic and benefitted from superior goaltending.



The Predators out-shot Winnipeg 48-19 on Friday night. They had three power play opportunities and didn’t allow...