Why was Nashville Predators vs Tampa Bay Lightning preseason game canceled?

The Nashville Predators' preseason game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, set for Monday, Oct. 7, was canceled due to the approaching Hurricane Milton, which has raised safety concerns in the Tampa area. The game was originally scheduled for Sept. 27 but was postponed because of Hurricane Helene.

In a press release, Tampa Bay identified the upcoming hurricane as the cause for the postponement.

"Lightning’s game on Monday has been cancelled as the Tampa Bay region prepares for Hurricane Milton," the team said.

The Predators released a similar statement addressing the cancellation, saying:

"The Nashville Predators preseason game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, slated for Monday, Oct. 7 at 6 pm CT at Amalie Arena, is canceled due to pending weather conditions."

As of this story's publishing, there have been no updates regarding a potential rescheduling of the game, although it could be challenging with the regular season starting soon.

Hurricane Helene recently caused widespread damage in the Tampa Bay area, leaving more than 200 people dead.

The Predators will now shift their attention to their regular-season opener on Thursday, Oct. 10, when they will face the Dallas Stars at Bridgestone Arena.

Nashville Predators support East Tennessee families with Hurricane Helene relief fundraiser

The Nashville Predators have lent a hand to families in East Tennessee affected by Hurricane Helene. They asked fans to donate $2 each, aiming to raise $25,000. The Predators Foundation pledged to match donations up to that amount.

On Instagram, the team shared the importance of unity before their game against the Carolina Hurricanes, which was earlier canceled due to weather conditions.

"We are asking Smashville to make a small donation to help those in need. If 17,159 fans donate $2 each, we will surpass our goal in no time. The Preds Foundation will match donations up to $25,000," the Nashville Predators Foundation said in a post.

Nashville Predators' preparation for 2024 NHL season

The Nashville Predators, led by Roman Josi, Filip Forsberg and Juuse Saros, bolstered their offensive lineup with the additions of Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault.

General Manager Barry Trotz reshaped the team by hiring Andrew Brunette to focus on offense, which resulted in an improvement in goals per game last season.

However, Nashville still lacks a true No. 1 center. Ryan O’Reilly and Tommy Novak lead the team's center lineup, which could be a vulnerable area. Still, they have veterans and younger players like Luke Evangelista and Spencer Stastney providing the team with depth for the season.