Nashville Predators: Five players to improve in 2017

Number 3: Kevin Fiala

It was a highlight moment for a career, not just a game. It was Game 3 of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. And it was on home ice. After coming back from a 2-0 deficit, the Nashville Predators take their bitter rival, the Chicago Blackhawks, to overtime. James Neal takes the puck and passes to Kevin Fiala just to the left of the net.

Shift. Wait. Score. Game Over. Mob scene.

It is unfortunate that Fiala was injured later in the playoffs. The team’s top draft pick in 2014 fits the needs of the Predators. He possesses speed, the ability to shift on the move, and holds onto the puck. His ability to create and is aware of his teammates on the ice. Given regular time on the third line, you could see another 40 point player on the Predators.