NHL
The Predators look to bring the Cup to Tennessee
The president trophy winning Nashville Predators ended their season loosing in the Western Conference Semifinals to the Winnipeg Jets 4-3. This came one season after their Stanley Cup appearance. The Predators look to return to the promise land with that same roster, along with some new faces. But of course, big questions still remain.
Have the Predators gotten better
On paper, yes they have. With more additions than subtractions, it seems the Predators are going in with a full deck of cards. In addition, they resigned most of their key stars like Ryan Ellis. However, as with all other sports, it does not mean anything until the season starts.
Key Additions
Defenseman Dan Hamhuis, a former Predators draft pick, returns to Nashville at a deal worth $2.5 million. Last season, he finished with 24 points in 80 games and a -6 rating. So it seems like he has returned to bring a physical presence to the team. He should pair nicely with Ryan Ellis or Yannick Weber.
The infamous forward, Zac Rinaldo, joins the squad this season on a one-year deal worth $650,000. Much like Hamhuis, he is there to bring a physical presence. Last season, he finished with seven points in 53 games. The only way this signing pans out is if he can start putting points on the board, and hopefully avoid getting suspended again.
Forward Rocco Grimaldi comes to town on a one-year deal worth $650,000. He only played six games last season but he has the talent and speed to get the job done. In addition, he may still be developing his game at 25 years old, so this might just be a depth signing. But it is a great one nonetheless.
Key Subtractions
The only big name that the Predators lost was their former captain in Mike Fisher due to retirement. He announced his second retirement from the NHL in May. The Predators will be missing a leader and a class act on and off the ice.
Where do the Predators stand?
With a net gain of +30, the Predators seemed to have made the right moves. While that leadership is gone from Mike Fisher, that does not mean no one else on the squad is capable of being said leader. Defensemen Roman Josi and P.K. Subban can lead this squad to another Stanley Cup run. In addition, the talent in forward Filip Forseberg and great goal tending in Pekka Rinne makes them a cup contender every season. It all just comes down to bringing it all together.
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Photo Credit
Photo Courtesy of Ticket Crusader
