Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators, known as the Preds for short, are a National Hockey League (NHL) team based in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded as an expansion franchise in 1998, the Predators compete in the Western Conference’s Central Division.¹

The Predators are recognized by their bold saber-toothed tiger logo and gold uniforms, and have built a passionate fan base in one of hockey’s most energetic markets. The team plays its home games at Bridgestone Arena, located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Tennessee.

Get your Nashville Predators tickets through AXS to experience a fast-paced, action-packed professional hockey event.

The Nashville Predators joined the NHL as part of the league’s 1998 expansion, becoming the 27th franchise in league history.¹ The team played its first game on October 10, 1998, at Bridgestone Arena (then known as Nashville Arena) versus the Florida Panthers.²

After several rebuilding seasons in the early 2000s, the franchise began to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with, reaching its first Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2004.² Throughout the 2010s, the Predators became a consistent playoff contender, highlighted by a franchise-best run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017.²

The 2016-17 season marked a defining moment for the Predators, as Nashville advanced to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in team history, expanding the sport’s reach and fanbase in the South.

Over the years, the Predators have featured standout players including Mike Fisher, Shea Weber, Roman Josi, and Pekka Rinne, helping solidify the team’s competitive identity in the Central Division.³

Bridgestone Arena is a multi-purpose venue known for hosting numerous events, including concerts by some of country music’s biggest names. It’s also been the home of the Nashville Predators since the team’s inaugural season in 1998.⁴ Located on Broadway in downtown Nashville, the arena is known for its lively atmosphere and prime downtown Nashville location, especially during playoff runs.

With a seating capacity of approximately 17,500 for hockey games, Bridgestone Arena provides fans with clear sightlines, modern amenities, and close access to Nashville’s vibrant entertainment district, steps from Broadway.⁵ Its central location allows fans to enjoy nearby restaurants, live music venues, and nightlife before and after games.

• Clarence S. Campbell Bowl (2016-2017): The Clarence S. Campbell Bowl is awarded to the playoff champion in the Western Conference. The Nashville Predators won the prestigious award during their 2016-2017 season.⁶
• Presidents’ Trophy (2018): This award is given annually to the team that finishes the regular season with the best overall record. The Predators won this prestigious award in 2018, posting a 53-18-11 record and 117 points.⁷
• Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (2008-2009): Steve Sullivan became the first Nashville Predators player to win the Bill Masterton award during the 2008-2009 season. The award is given "to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.⁸

The NHL regular season typically runs from October through April, with the Stanley Cup Playoffs extending into June. Nashville Predators tickets are available through AXS for regular-season home games.