Tuesday's marquee matchup between the Nashville Predators and Winnipeg Jets certainly lived up to expectations.

The two Central Division heavyweights combined for 11 goals, with the Predators ultimately coming away with a 6-5 win after three straight goals in the third period - the game-winner scored by newcomer Ryan Hartman with one minute left on the clock.

Related: Western arms race: Who's better, the Predators or Jets?

The Jets' big deadline acquisition, Paul Stastny, played a substantial role as well, netting a goal and an assist in his Winnipeg debut.

By securing two points, the Predators extended their lead over the Jets to four points in the Central, holding one game in hand. The two clubs have two more meetings this season, and appear to be on a collision course for a postseason matchup as well. Should that be the case, hockey fans are in for quite a treat.

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