The Predators are 9-3 in the playoffs. They followed their previous two defeats, each in the second round against the St. Louis Blues, with victories and won the series in six games.
"Nobody should expect to go through the playoffs and not ever lose a game," coach Peter Laviolette said. "But I think the most important thing is how you bounce back from it, because there will be ups and downs. How quickly you can turn the page and focus on the next day and the next game. And our guys have been pretty good at that.
"So while the losses are always tough, they haven't been losses where I felt like we were completely outdone. And we turned the page and we moved forward."
As it has progressed through the postseason, Nashville has seen the emotion and intensity increase.
On the morning of Game 3, much of the talk from the Predators was about keeping their composure.
"It's intense out there," Josi said. "Both teams are playing real well so intensity is high. You've got to stay disciplined. But the goal is to win the game and you've got to stay disciplined."
That includes No. 1 center Ryan Johansen, who has been the target of tough checking from Selke Trophy finalist Ryan Kesler of the Ducks. The two have waged a spirited battle in the first two games.
"He [Johansen] knows it's going to come," Ellis said. "He's one of the most talented guys in the League. He's a big boy. You know that guys are going to pick on him, extra stick work, extra this, extra that. I'm sure for him it's frustrating taking the extra jabs here or there. But he knows it's coming and it's up to him to stay composed.
"It can be frustrating when you're taking those extra whacks and nothing is getting called back. It's part of the game. It happens and [he] knows that."
