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Predators Reloaded: the Push for 2024-2025 glory
2023-2024 Season Recap:
The Nashville Predators had a solid 2023-2024 season, finishing with 99 points in the Western Conference. While they didn’t break into the upper echelon of the standings, they were competitive throughout, making the playoffs and proving they’re a team on the rise. A big factor in their performance was the hiring of new head coach Andrew Brunette, who implemented a system that brought structure and stability to the team. Under Brunette’s leadership, the Predators maintained over 50% puck possession for the first two-thirds of the season, indicating their ability to control play in key stretches.
As the season progressed, the Predators began to show significant improvement in their advanced metrics. According to ESBC Power AI data, Nashville’s rolling average performance showed a notable uptick in the latter third of the season, a sign that Brunette’s system was starting to click. While such metrics can fluctuate in small samples, this trend was a positive indicator of the team’s growth heading into the playoffs.
In the postseason, Nashville faced off against the Vancouver Canucks in a tightly contested six-game series. While they ultimately lost, the series could have easily gone the other way with a few lucky bounces. The Predators were competitive throughout and showed that they’re not far from being a team that can make deeper playoff runs in the future.
Offseason Moves:
The Nashville Predators made significant moves in the 2024 offseason, signaling their intent to take the next step toward contention. The most notable addition was Steven Stamkos, a perennial 40-goal scorer and future Hall of Famer. Stamkos’ presence alone should instantly elevate the Predators' offensive capabilities. Alongside Stamkos, the Predators also brought in Jonathan Marchessault, who is coming off a productive season with the Vegas Golden Knights. Together, Stamkos and Marchessault are expected to combine for well over 60 goals, giving the Predators two reliable offensive weapons to pair with their young talent.
On defense, Nashville added Brady Skjei, a reliable top-four blueliner, to strengthen their defensive depth. Skjei brings a combination of mobility and defensive awareness that should complement the Predators' existing core. In net, Scott Wedgewood was acquired to serve as a backup to Juuse Saros, one of the league’s elite goaltenders. Wedgewood provides a solid insurance option in case Saros needs rest or faces injury during the season.
The only significant departure was Ryan McDonagh, a veteran defenseman who played a role in stabilizing the Predators’ blue line. While McDonagh’s leadership and defensive presence will be missed, the additions of Skjei and the maturation of young defensemen should help Nashville maintain defensive stability.
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline regarding Nashville’s goaltending is the departure of Yaroslav Askarov, the highly touted prospect who left the organization after realizing that he is unable to unseat Saros for the starting role. Askarov joins a growing list of goaltenders who’ve struggled to displace Saros, a testament to the latter’s status as one of the NHL’s premier netminders.
2024-2025 Season Outlook:
Heading into the 2024-2025 season, the Nashville Predators appear poised to take a step forward. The combination of Stamkos and Marchessault should provide a significant boost to their offensive output, which has been inconsistent in recent years. Both players have proven track records of scoring in key situations, which will be vital for Nashville’s playoff aspirations.
Defensively, the Predators remain solid, even with the departure of McDonagh. The addition of Skjei, combined with the presence of players like Roman Josi and Alexandre Carrier, ensures that Nashville’s blue line will remain a strength. This defensive core, alongside one of the best goalies in the NHL in Juuse Saros, gives Nashville a strong foundation to build upon.
Saros has been the backbone of the team, and his ability to consistently deliver elite goaltending will once again be critical. Last season wasn't the best one from Saros, but he's likely to bounce back. The presence of Wedgewood as a capable backup should alleviate some of the workload for Saros, allowing him to stay fresh throughout the long season.
Under head coach Andrew Brunette, the Predators have shown they can adapt to a structured system that emphasizes puck possession and responsible two-way play. If they can maintain the upward trajectory they showed in the latter half of last season, there’s reason to believe they can contend with the best teams in the Western Conference.
Key Challenges:
Despite their improvements, the Predators still face some challenges. For one, they will need to integrate their new acquisitions quickly to build chemistry. While Stamkos and Marchessault are proven performers, how they fit into Brunette’s system remains to be seen. Additionally, the Central Division remains highly competitive, with teams like Colorado, Dallas, and Winnipeg expected to challenge for the top spots once again.
Another area of concern is depth scoring. Beyond Stamkos and Marchessault, Nashville will need contributions from younger forwards like Luke Evangelista and Philip Tomasino. The Predators’ ability to spread out scoring across all four lines will be key in determining how far they can go.
Conclusion:
The Nashville Predators enter the 2024-2025 season as a team with significant promise. With the addition of Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, they’ve addressed their offensive needs, while the stability of their defense and goaltending remains intact. Under Andrew Brunette’s system, the team has shown the ability to adapt and improve, which bodes well for their playoff hopes.
While they may not yet be considered a top-tier Stanley Cup favorite, the Predators are certainly in the mix in the Western Conference. With continued development, improved offensive contributions, and elite goaltending from Juuse Saros, Nashville could be poised for a deep playoff run this season.
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