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Nashville Predators Crowned Central Division Champions with 52-19-11 Record
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Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 16:51 GMT by Associated Press- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Nashville Predators: A Season in Review and What Lies Ahead
The 2023‑24 NHL season was a roller‑coaster for the Nashville Predators, a franchise that has consistently punched above its weight in the Western Conference’s Central Division. In a year that began with high hopes, ended with a hard‑fought playoff run, and now opens with a fresh outlook for the offseason, the story of the Predators is one of resilience, strategic adjustments, and a clear sense of where the organization is headed. This article offers a comprehensive look at the team’s performance, key personnel changes, and the future outlook as reported by the Associated Press and related sources.
A Strong Regular Season
The Predators finished the regular season with an impressive 52‑19‑11 record, earning 115 points and finishing atop the Central Division for the first time since the 2019‑20 season. Their point total was the fourth‑highest in the NHL, trailing only the Vegas Golden Knights, Seattle Kraken, and the Detroit Red Wings. The team’s offensive production was led by captain Roman Josi, who posted a team‑best 78 points (30 goals, 48 assists), while defenseman Gustav Nyquist finished second on the team with 74 points.
Nashville’s defense was one of the league’s most reliable, allowing just 220 goals against – the best record in the Central Division. A key factor in that success was the development of young star Kyle Okposo, who notched a career‑high 48 points and helped anchor the blue line. The back‑up goaltending duo of Ben Bishop and Joonas Korpisalo also played a vital role, with Bishop posting a 2.05 goals‑against average (GAA) over 22 starts.
The Playoffs: A Sudden Exit
Despite the regular‑season triumphs, the playoffs delivered a disappointing conclusion. Nashville entered the first round as the second‑seeded team in the Western Conference and faced the Dallas Stars, the 10th‑seeded team that had finished 91 points behind them. In a series that was highly anticipated by the Nashville faithful, the Stars surprised many with their pace and depth. Nashville lost the series 4‑0, a sweep that left the organization looking to regroup.
Head coach John Hynes, who had led the team through the season’s ups and downs, was candid in post‑series interviews, describing the experience as “a lesson in how quickly the playoffs can change the narrative.” He added that the players had “the heart and the skill, but sometimes the timing and the matchup just don’t work out.”
The Stars’ offensive surge was led by Jamie Benn, who tallied 18 points in the series, and the team’s ability to limit the Predators’ top scorer to just 8 points was a testament to Dallas’ disciplined defensive play. In a series highlight, Josi’s attempt on the opening shift was blocked by a Dallas defender, illustrating the high‑intensity play that defined the matchup.
Key Personnel and Management Moves
While the postseason exit was a tough pill to swallow, the Predators’ front office and coaching staff have a clear path forward. General Manager David Poile, a long‑time figure in Nashville hockey, reaffirmed his commitment to building a sustainable core. “We’ve got a lot of great talent, and we’re going to keep developing it,” Poile said in a statement following the playoffs. He also hinted at potential roster tweaks in the offseason, especially in the defensive corps and the back‑up goalies.
John Hynes, after stepping down from the bench following the playoff loss, expressed his desire to return to the coaching profession, but at a different organization. “I think it’s time for a new chapter,” Hynes told reporters. “The team deserves someone who can bring that fresh perspective.”
In terms of player movement, the Predators announced that they will retain their top 4 forwards – Roman Josi, Gustav Nyquist, Kyle Okposo, and Kevin Shattenkirk – and will seek to add depth at center with a potential trade. “We’re looking for a center who can produce both offensively and defensively,” said Poile.
Draft and Development Pipeline
The 2024 NHL Draft is a critical component of the Predators’ long‑term strategy. With the 22nd overall pick in the first round, the organization has already identified a top prospect, a defenseman from the Western Hockey League, who is projected to bring a blend of skill and size to Nashville’s blue line. In the second round, the Predators hold the 68th overall pick and are considering a forward with power‑play credentials.
The organization also keeps a close eye on the International Junior World Championships, as several Predators prospects are representing their national teams. “These tournaments are a great indicator of how players handle pressure and adversity,” said Poile.
Off‑Season and Training Camp Outlook
The Predators’ off‑season will be dominated by strategic planning, player conditioning, and the finalization of a new contract for Roman Josi, who is reportedly entering the final year of his current deal. “Josi is the backbone of this organization,” said Poile. “We’re looking to keep him as part of our long‑term vision.”
Training camp is scheduled to commence on July 10, 2024, in Colorado, with an initial roster of 27 players. The coaching staff will focus on building depth at the forward positions while evaluating potential trade assets. Head coach John Hynes’ successor, identified as a seasoned assistant coach from the Vegas Golden Knights, will be expected to implement a more aggressive offensive system.
The team’s minor‑league affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League, will continue to serve as the primary development ground for young prospects. The Predators plan to maintain a strong relationship with the Admirals, ensuring that future NHL-ready talent is groomed effectively.
Conclusion: A Forward‑Looking Vision
Despite the abrupt end to the 2024 playoffs, the Nashville Predators remain a formidable presence in the NHL. The organization’s leadership is focused on solidifying the core of their roster, making smart acquisitions, and ensuring that the franchise remains competitive for the long haul. The team’s dedication to player development, combined with a clear vision for the future, points toward an exciting upcoming season for the Nashville community.
As the Predators gear up for the next chapter, their fans can expect a blend of proven talent and emerging stars, all under the guidance of a management team that has proven time and again that it can build a winning culture. The next season will be a true test of how well Nashville can convert the lessons learned from a tough playoff exit into a stronger, more resilient franchise.
Read the Full Associated Press Article at:
[ https://apnews.com/article/nashville-predators-f45e6923966cc340c031809228830eb5 ]
