Nashville Predators preview: P.K. Subban leads Stanley Cup caliber defense
Strengths
Defense
The Nashville Predators have the best defense in the NHL. Their blueline, as I mentioned, is deep and full of talent. Subban is an elite talent and Josi is usually in the Norris Trophy conversation. Ekholm and Ellis aren’t, but they’re still excellent pieces and are more than just their respective partner’s sidekick.
They also have great goaltending. Rinne, despite his age, is still an excellent goalie. Father Time isn’t kind to goalies over the age of 35, but Saros gives the Predators the best plan B in the NHL in case Father Time catches up to Rinne. Nashville would be wise to let him walk in free agency after the 2018-19 season and let Saros take over. That would give Poile more cap space and we all know how dangerous he can be with some breathing room.
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Special Teams
The Predators are very strong on both ends of special teams. Considering how good they are at five-on-five, this makes them a lethal Stanley Cup threat. The Predators power play is a bit unique, as it tends to run through their defensemen. It’s hard to argue with their success, but I’d suggest a minor change. If it ran through Johansen, I bet the Predators would have a top-five power play instead of “merely” a great one.
Depth
Overall, Nashville is a very deep team. Tolvanen should give them three very capable forward lines and obviously, their defense is pretty darn deep as well. Stars win you Stanley Cups, but depth is important as well. The Predators have both.