2009-2010 record: 47-29-6 (100 points)
Lost to Chicago in 1st round 4-2
Captain: Shea Weber
Alternate captains: Steve Sullivan
3 players to watch: Nashville has become something of a defenseman factory, with its ability to produce NHL-caliber players at that position. Nevermore is that evident than when they announced that Shea Weber would be named captain of the team. Often ignored outside of Nashville, he was a part of the Canadian team that won gold in February. Now, he is in the spotlight, so how he handles the additional responsibility will determine the Preds' fate this year. New Predator Matthew Lombardi is expected to add speed to the lineup. He will also be expected to add offense to a team that since its existence, hasn't had much in the way of a true goal scorer. With Dan Hamhuis' departure, there is an opening for a sixth defenseman. One player to watch is Ryan Parent. He was unable to crack the Flyers' lineup last year, but a new team and an opportunity could be all he needs to gain playing time, and given the Preds' penchant for defensemen, he could thrive.
Things to look for: The search for offense continues. Sure, Patric Hornqvist contributed 30 goals last year, but no one is sure if it is a one year abberation or not. Outside of that, only Martin Erat had more than 20 goals. With most teams, this is a recipe for disaster. However, Nashville can boast a more than capable blue line group that despite losing Hamhuis, will be just as good as last year. Helping the defense is the emergence of goaltender Pekka Rinne. Last year was proof that he wasn't a half year wonder (2008-09 season) and now with Dan Ellis in Tampa, the number one job is his come opening night. If he falters, the depth behind him is largely untested on the NHL level, so a repeat year from him is imperative.
Prediction: 8th in the West
Song: Daylight Dies-Dismantling Devotion
Nothing particularly exciting, yet one of the most consistent bands out there, Daylight Dies often gets overlooked by larger media, yet puts out good music every chance they get. Nashville gets overlooked by the media, yet is always in the playoff race by the end of the year. This year will be no different.
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