Nashville's Bold Moves Yet to Pay Off
The Nashville Predators have found themselves in a precarious position this season, languishing at the bottom of the standings alongside the Montreal Canadiens. With a record of 5-9-2, the team is struggling to find its footing despite an aggressive offseason led by General Manager Barry Trotz. Trotz made headlines by securing high-profile acquisitions such as Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei. However, the bolstered roster has yet to translate into success on the ice, evidenced by the team's concerning minus-22 goal differential in five-on-five play.
Goaltending Standouts Elsewhere
While the Predators grapple with their challenges, the rest of the NHL showcases standout performances in the net. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets currently leads the league with an impressive 12.6 goals saved above average and a stellar .934 save percentage. This remarkable level of play highlights what Nashville has been missing between the pipes. Meanwhile, Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames, ranking 18th in goals saved above average and 25th in save percentage, still surpasses Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues, pointing to the competitive nature of NHL goaltending.
Panthers on a Roll
As Nashville struggles, the Florida Panthers are roaring through the league with a dominating seven-game winning streak. Their ability to maintain such form contrasts starkly with the Predators' current woes, underscoring the unpredictable narrative of this season. Over in New York, Chris Kreider has found the back of the net eight times for the Rangers, though he is yet to deliver an assist, while Adam Fox racks up assists, tallying 12 this season.
Struggles and Successes in the West
Out West, the Dallas Stars are benefiting from the offensive contributions of Matt Duchene and Mason Marchment, who collectively have netted 11 goals and provided 20 assists. In Minnesota, Marco Rossi collaborates effectively with Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello, accumulating four goals and nine assists—an offensive chemistry the Predators are struggling to emulate.
Furthermore, the Vegas Golden Knights boast a 12.0% shooting percentage, placing them second in the NHL. Their efficiency is proven by 44 goals scored against 30.5 expected goals, underscoring the team's strength in converting opportunities. In comparison, the Colorado Avalanche's performance with Nathan MacKinnon on the ice highlights their plus-2 goal differential and an impressive 57.3% expected goals share during five-on-five play, affirming their competitive edge.
Disappointments and Drops
Elsewhere, Edmonton Oilers' stars Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins continue their search for form as the season progresses. Meanwhile, defensively, Jake Sanderson of the Ottawa Senators and Charlie Coyle of the Boston Bruins face challenges, with both suffering negative goal differentials. Over in Philadelphia, Matvei Michkov's two-game stint as a healthy scratch raises questions about his role with the Flyers.
In Pittsburgh, the Penguins have already suffered a bruising 7-1 loss against the Dallas Stars, a stark reminder of the volatility and intensity present in NHL matchups. Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks endures a scoring drought, failing to net a goal in his last seven games. Similarly, Adam Fantilli of the Columbus Blue Jackets is experiencing offensive struggles, managing two assists in the past seven games while reflecting a 38.0% expected goals share.
Montreal’s Defensive Woes
The Montreal Canadiens, sharing the basement with Nashville, have allowed four or more goals on multiple occasions this season, suggesting defensive frailties that require urgent attention. The Predators, facing similar defensive issues, might look to learn from their struggles as they seek to reverse this season's disappointments.
As the NHL season unfolds, teams are grappling with a spectrum of challenges and triumphs, crafting a narrative rich with surprise, resilience, and, for some, a renewed hope that their fortunes can be turned. For Nashville and Montreal, the coming games will be crucial in determining whether they can shift the tide and elevate their standings. The season is young, but the clock is ticking.