NHL: Key Players For Western Conference Playoff Teams

By Jasmine Yen | Feb 11, 2020

WINNIPEG, MB December 19: Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane (88) scores on Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck (37) during the regular season game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Chicago Blackhawks on December 19, 2019 at the Bell MTS Place in Winnipeg MB. (Photo by Terrence Lee/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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Photo by Danny Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images /

Nashville Predators – Pekka Rinne

For years the Nashville Predators had an unstoppable defense and a very mediocre offense. In the summer, David Poile signed Matt Duchene to a mega-deal and early in the season he extended captain Roman Josi to an eight-year extension. They have become one of the top-scoring teams in the league but in return, they have struggled mightily on defense.

Both goaltenders have not looked great and their 3.04 goals-against average is one of the worst in the NHL (7th worst). Unless Pekka Rinne can regain his Vezina-winning form, the team is in deep trouble. Especially with Ryan Ellis out with an injury, Rinne needs to be better in order to help cover for his defensemen.

Key players for Eastern bubble playoff teams. dark. Next

While Saros has been good for the Predators in his last three games, it is Rinne that the Predators need when the games matter the most. David Poile got the offense figured out and if Rinne can stop pucks, then they have a winning formula. The final piece of the Predators’ puzzle is Rinne and if he can turn his season around and get it done for his team, Nashville will become a legitimate threat. The Predators are just three points out of a wild card spot so this race is far from over.

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