2016-17 record: 41-29-12 (94 points)
Lost to Pittsburgh in Stanley Cup Finals
Captain: TBA
The regular season for the Nashville Predators was anything but extraordinary, as they needed just about the entire season to secure the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Once the playoffs started, they got Red Light Fever, as they didn't just beat Chicago in the opening round, but did so in a sweep and in rather dominating fashion. That set the tone for a playoff that was filled with firsts, and though they fell two games short of the Stanley Cup, it only opens the door for future playoff runs. The question is the same that befalls all runners-up and whether they can avoid the Stanley Cup hangover.
The Predators needed most of the season to figure out who to pair PK Subban with, and once they figured it out (it was Mattias Ekholm), the Predators had three above average pairs, but with Ryan Ellis slated to be out until January, that means they will have to figure out who to pair with Roman Josi. Newcomer Alexei Emelin figures to be the favorite to be slotted alongside Josi. Depth should be no issue, especially if either Samuel Girard or Alexandre Carrier crack the opening night lineup. Up front, they will need to find replacements for James Neal and Mike Fisher, though that shouldn't be too difficult, as there is no shortage of hungry players wanting to crack the lineup for good (Pontus Aberg and Fredrick Gaudreau) and leadership. The JOFA line of Ryan Johansen, Filip Forsberg, and Viktor Arvidsson are all signed to long-term deals, and are expected to lead the way offensively, and newcomer Nick Bonino will be the second center. Scott Hartnell was brought back to provide solid third-line play. The Predators were kicking the tires on Matt Duchene, an indication that they were looking to improve center depth, but if Colton Sissons and/or Calle Jarnkrok can step up, that may be solve their problem without moving any pieces. In goal, Pekka Rinne benefited from playing less games in the regular season, and the result was a playoff performance that almost got the Predators the Cup. He'll be 35 in November however, so crucial play from Juuse Saros will be a factor in just how much rest Rinne gets during the regular season. Special teams were pretty good, though they clearly benefited from the number of power play opportunities, something that they will have to create once again.
Prediction: 1st in the Central Division
The Predators will have less rest than in past seasons thanks to their playoff run, but don't expect the Predators to rest on their laurels. They will not only be motivated to finish what they started, but also have a chance at claiming their first division title. The latter won't be easy, since every team has always been tough, but the Predators are more ready now than they've ever been.
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