Nashville Predators: Top 5 Reasons the Predators will Struggle in 2017-18

#3 Lack of Quality Depth

When it comes to depth, the Nashville Predators will not have as much as they are normally used to. This does not really apply to the defense, as the addition of Alexei Emelin has added some more depth to that unit. No longer will Bitetto be the only option as a reserve. As for the offense, though; that is a different story.

Last season when the Predators needed players to step up and fill spots players like Sissons and Fiala jumped at the opportunity. There were others who played more minor roles as backups, but this season, along with Sissons and Fiala, they are expected to start in the NHL. Pontus Aberg, Frederick Gaudreau, and Vladislav Kamenev will all likely be on the Predators’ roster when the season starts. Obviously, they won’t all get to play immediately, instead they will become the depth for the roster.

Other players who will be fighting for a starting spot will be Cody McLeod and Miikka Salomaki. McLeod will likely see more game action just due to his physicality, but will still spend plenty of time as reserve, as well. However, for the most part, everyone who can be considered part of the depth of the team is unproven. Players will get hurt, it will happen to every team. The way the young depth performs when needed will determine how much the Predators will struggle this season.