30 in 30: Nashville Predators
It was a pretty big struggle in Nashville for the Predators in last year’s shortened campaign, as they managed to record just 16 wins in 48 games. They finished rock bottom of the Central Division and 14th in the Western Conference.
The pivotal point in the Predators’ off-season came in the entry draft, where they acquired the services of the very promising defenseman Seth Jones. A big blow was dealt to the team when Ryan Suter headed to Minnesota back in 2012, but Jones could certainly be good enough to act as a straight replacement. I think the defensive unit of the Preds is certainly going to be the stronger aspect of their game.
As far as their offense goes, Nashville has always lacked any sort of depth to their top six scoring. David Legwand still manages to score goals, but you certainly can’t rely on him to be your number one points producer at this late stage of his career.
Eric Nystrom, Viktor Stalberg and Matt Cullen all arrived in Tennessee over the off-season. I think these are three great additions, adding depth, experience and talent to the roster.
Matt Cullen is a proven points scorer with seven 40+ point NHL seasons to his name. Viktor Stalberg is also another decent point scorer, with the Swede knowing how to win games of hockey after arriving from a very successful Blackhawks team.
Eric Nystrom, on the other hand, will offer something a bit different. He is a very tough guy, always up for delivering a hit and dropping the gloves. He adds energy to whichever line he plays on and has the ability to turn momentum in his teams favour.
I don’t think many people will predict the Preds to have a season to remember, but I think they may just prove a few people wrong. There is some very exciting young talent coming through, proven experience and a very solid goalie.
Prediction: 3rd in Central Division, Eliminated first round of playoffs.