Nashville Predators: If defense wins championships, Emelin must play
Of all the moves made by the Nashville Predators on July 1, none cause more head scratches than the trade for Emelin. What roles does he play now?
The opening of the free agency signing period was intense. It started with the Nashville Predators signing Nick Bonino away from the Pittsburgh Penguins. Then news broke of a trade with the Colorado Avalanche, just not one that we all expected. Later in the day, the team added Scott Hartnell, returning to the team that drafted him.
Far later in the day, when many thought the team was finished, another trade. This time, the Predators acquired defenseman Alexei Emelin from the Vegan Golden Knights. But why? The team was already stacked with talent on defense.
Wait? Was it for the trade that everyone thought was going to happen? The one that was to bring Matt Duchene to Nashville?
No. At least not to this point. And doubtful for Nashville.
So, what now?
Emelin is not know for his offensive skills. His highest scoring output is 17. That is not his game. He is there to be physical. Sometimes, maybe a bit too physical.
And that is a good thing for the Nashville Predators.
The defense for the Predators already scores. They are one of the best defenses in the league in scoring, earning 150 points between the top four defensemen. All four ranked in the top 13 of scoring on the team. Ryan Ellis, Roman Josi and P.K. Subban all ranked in the top eight.
Emelin will not. What he does hit give hits. As a matter of fact, he averages 205 hits per season. Last season, playing with the Montreal Canadiens, he tallied 241 hits, 147 blocks. His play helped lead the Canadiens to the third best goals-against total in all of the NHL.
And that is why the Predators need him, they ranked 15th in that stat.
A physical presence of Emelin creates two things. First, opposing offenses must be aware of the coming hit, which may cause them to hesitate. Secondly, it allows the rest of the Predators defense to play the puck quicker. They know Emelin is ready to hit, they can look for a free puck, then push it up the ice.
The only question is which line does he fit with best? If you read the Tennessean, they say he plays the third line at best. But, would it not make sense to place Emelin on either line one or two?
He played the starting line with Shea Weber in Montreal. But, matching him up with Subban could open more chances for the forwards on the second line.
A second line that could feature Bonino, Kevin Fiala and Craig Smith.
Next: Top 3 Things Coming Back to Nashville
It is a question worth investigating.