![]() ![]() It could even start the ball rolling on a number of other big pieces being moved. This will have a serious impact on the quality of the team moving forward. The likes of Evangelista, Tomasino and Askarov have huge seasons ahead of them – questions will be raised if they cannot contribute.Īdditionally, if struggles run deep into the season and Trotz feels forced to trade Saros, the goaltending will not recover. ![]() Ultimately, Trotz needed to get another goalscorer Forsberg alone cannot be responsible for all the scoring. There is a definite risk of the Predators falling short again. Prediction for the 2023-24 Nashville Predators If he does the 21-year-old could be saying goodbye to the Admirals and serving as Saros’ back-up. Askarov has already had a taste of professional hockey in North America but will want to use this pre-season to prove he is ready for the NHL. However, the battle could begin regardless of Saros’ status. The Predators’ results could see Saros traded, resulting in a duel between himself and Lankinen for the starting spot. The Russian has spent his career in North America waiting in the wings to succeed Saros. Nashville’s eleventh overall pick in the 2020 Draft, Askarov is considered the future between the pipes in Nashville. Once again this is a flaw which will not help the Predators’ forward group, but if he can work on this and boost his scoring, we could truly see a breakout year for the Canadian. Evangelista will bring to the table his playmaking ability – 40 of last season’s points came from assists – and excellent defensive skills, with teammates, coaches and fans alike hoping he develops into the tremendous two-way player he is projecting to be. He also had a brief stint with the big team, notching a respectable 15 points in 24 games.Īfter such a strong year, he will likely be there opening night. He impressed with 32 points in 49 games, making the AHL All-Star Game. Drafted in 2020’s second round, the former London Knight spent most of last season in Milwaukee. This year will be a big one for Evangelista. ![]() This would subsequently put Lankinen and Yaroslav in a heated battle for the starting spot, Askarov would be expected to at least showcase that he can beat out Lankinen, a player with minimal experience. Rumours are swirling that if the playoffs are once again out of reach by the trade deadline, Trotz could pull the trigger and trade Saros. However, things could change very quickly. Currently, Kevin Lankinen is the likely back-up. Jusse Saros, considered one of the NHL’s best goaltenders, will be the presumed starter. Goaltending will once again be a strong suit for Nashville and will be fascinating to monitor. Fabbro and Carrier are both strong options for the special teams units. Each has the ability to track back and can quarterback play, as well as fire off a strong shot. Both are solid two-way defencemen who could crack the top four if required. The bottom pairing looks to likely be Dante Fabbro and Alexandre Carrier. The latter is also a huge voice in the locker room and is not afraid to throw big hits and protect his teammates, which makes McDonagh a wonderful teammate to have. Once again, the duo will match nicely with Barrie’s offensive play, pairing well with McDonagh’s defensive qualities. The top four looks to be rounded out by veterans Ryan McDonagh and Tyson Barrie. His role as a stay-at-home defenceman will free Josi to make decisive plays. As outlined above, it is likely new boy Schenn will be paired up with the club’s captain. The Swiss can be relied upon for his outstanding offensive production, puck-moving, playmaking and leadership. Josi, an ever-present contender in the Norris Trophy conversation will lead the blueline. Once again, Nashville’s defence will be its strong suit. L ineup Predictions Forwardsįilip Forsberg – Ryan O’Reilly – Gustav Nyquistĭante Fabbro – Alexandre Carrier Top Four He will be an excellent match alongside the attack-minded Roman Josi. He has since bounced back to proudly call himself a two-time Stanley Cup winner and be recognised as one of the league’s more reliable stay-at-home defencemen. 2008’s fifth overall pick had a strong rookie season but followed up with many rough years in the NHL, which included a number of demotions to the AHL. The Russian will be a fine addition to the middle six.Īnother player who fans will be pleased to see on the roster is Luke Schenn. Gurianov also is a similar sort of player and whilst he does not put up the same stats as Nyquist, he does provide more grit. The former is a speedy, playmaking winger, who is not afraid to fire on goal and has plenty of leadership qualities. As one of the top free agents in his class, with an excellent NHL record on and off the ice, he was a huge coup.įellow forwards Gustav Nyquist and Denis Gurianov were also acquired in free agency. With a large hole down Nashville’s core, Trotz managed to lure Ryan O’Reilly to the Music City. ![]()
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