Nashville's Struggles: A Deep Dive into the Predators' Season
The current NHL season has been tumultuous for the Nashville Predators, a team that entered the campaign with high expectations following an aggressive offseason strategy. Despite this, with only a 5-9-2 record, the Predators find themselves at the bottom of the standings, languishing alongside the Montreal Canadiens.
Offseason Moves and Current Challenges
Under the guidance of General Manager Barry Trotz, Nashville engaged in a bold offseason spending spree, targeting marquee names like Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei. These acquisitions were meant to bolster the team's playoff aspirations and elevate their position within the league. However, the results have not met expectations. A minus-22 goal differential at five-on-five play highlights the difficulties the team has been encountering on the ice, suggesting that the new roster additions have yet to gel cohesively.
In stark contrast to the Predators' woes, other teams and players demonstrate promising performances this season, underscoring the heights Nashville was hoping to reach. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets is a prime example of excellence, leading the NHL with 12.6 goals saved above average and a remarkable .934 save percentage.
Comparative Goaltending Performances
Further down the goaltending spectrum, Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames ranks 18th in goals saved above average and 25th in save percentage. Notably, Jordan Binnington from the St. Louis Blues ranks even lower, showcasing just how competitive the landscape is for top netminders. These metrics serve as a stark contrast to the challenges faced by Nashville's defense, highlighting the areas where improvement is crucial.
Winners and Losers Across the League
Elsewhere in the league, the Florida Panthers are showcasing what stability and form can achieve, riding high on a seven-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars have benefited from the skillful play of Matt Duchene and Mason Marchment, who have combined for 11 goals and 20 assists. Contrastingly, Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks is currently navigating a drought, having failed to score in the last seven games, while Adam Fantilli of the Columbus Blue Jackets has struggled with a 38.0% expected goals share over the same period.
For the New York Rangers, the season has seen poignant individual contributions. Chris Kreider's eight goals have been invaluable, although he has yet to record an assist. Meanwhile, Adam Fox has shone as a playmaker, tallying 12 assists this season. Dylan Strome's chemistry with Alex Ovechkin has also been a highlight for the Washington Capitals, with Strome assisting on 10 of Ovechkin's goals during his 18 total assists this season.
Vegas Golden Knights: Efficiency Personified
The Vegas Golden Knights stand out for their impressive 12.0% shooting percentage, the second highest in the league, having scored 44 goals on 30.5 expected goals. Their efficiency in front of the net is an exemplar of effective execution and teamwork that other teams could emulate, including the Predators.
In sharp contrast to these performances, the Edmonton Oilers have seen Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins struggle to find their form this season, adding further intrigue to the stories of success and struggle throughout the NHL. Additionally, defensive concerns persist for players like Jake Sanderson of the Ottawa Senators and Charlie Coyle of the Boston Bruins, who are battling negative goal differentials.
Overall, the unpredictable winds of fate that blow through the NHL's regular season have left some teams floundering while others thrive. For the Nashville Predators, the remainder of the season will be crucial in justifying their offseason investments and finding a return to form, potentially drawing inspiration from the league's current pacesetters.