“Whether you put Johansen or (Mikael) Granlund with (Matt) Duchene and Forsberg, that was the top line all year long,” coach John Hynes said. “The issue was whichever one of those two centers wasn’t with those two wingers, we didn’t have enough punch in that quote-unquote ‘second-line’ spot." Duchene’s seven-year, $56 million contract is the largest free-agent deal in franchise history, excluding extensions. He is still under contract for the next four seasons. Duchene amassed 43 goals and 86 points in 78 games during the 2021-22 campaign.

Duchene scored a pair in Game 1 before he was shut out on Thursday. Duchene had an outstanding season as he had 43 goals and 43 assists, by far his best as an NHLer in his career. 

The Predators got an extremely rude awakening in the first period as the Avalanche scored five straight goals in short order. Things didn't get any easier in the second, however Duchene finally got his team on the board (6-1) on a power play near the end of the frame. He also scored in the third period but it was pretty inconsequential to the result. The Predators have a chance to avenge their embarrassing loss in Game 2 on Thursday night. 

Duchene extended his point streak to six games. He has 42 goals and 84 points in 76 contests in 2021-22.