NASHVILLE, March 24 (UPI) -- David Legwand gave Nashville a four-goal lead early in the third period Thursday and the Predators held on to down Anaheim 5-4.
Sergei Kostitsyn had two goals in helping Nashville open its big advantage and the Predators picked up a critical two points in their bid for a playoff spot. Nashville began the night in a tie with Los Angeles and Chicago for fifth place in the Western Conference.
Anaheim, resting in eighth place, failed to improve its one-point lead over Dallas.
After Legwand put Nashville in front 5-1 with 10:31 to play in the third, Teemu Selanne scored twice for Anaheim and Corey Perry added a goal with 27 seconds remaining.
The Predators held on to win their fifth straight. Pekka Rinne grabbed the victory with a 34-save performance.
Jonas Hiller, who was starting for the first time since Feb. 13, allowed three goals on nine shots before being replaced by Dan Ellis. Hiller had been out of action while suffering from vertigo.
