Nashville Predators: Should Kevin Fiala See The First Line?
The Nashville Predators Boasted a top five first line in the NHL. But the emergence of Kevin Fiala might force a shake-up.
The JoFA line was a blessing for the Nashville Predators last season. The first consisting of Viktor Arvidsson, Ryan Johansen, and Filip Forsberg was a force to be reckoned with, and they show no signs of slowing down. They’re all below the ripe young age of 26 and in the prime of their offensive careers. All three of them scored 60 points and it’s not inconceivable that they’ll grow or at least continue their production. So, will head coach Peter Laviolette keep this line together? Or will he give them a shot in the arm known as Kevin Fiala?
Who Will Fiala Replace?
Well, Fiala is a left winger and so he would replace Arvidsson. That’s a little sacrilegious to think about considering how Arvidsson played his way onto the first line and into our hearts. But maybe his services will be better utilized on the second line. When we take a look at both of their stats, it’s a little eerie how similar they are. Both posted a 55 Corsi score, although Fiala posted a 54.6 Fenwick while Arvidsson posted a 54.4 Fenwick. Those scores are both great and barely different, leading me to think that a switch might not cause any issues.
The big difference between Fiala and Arvidsson is their point totals. Arvidsson scored a cool 61 points while Fiala put up a decent 16 point. Quite the contrast, but let’s consider Arvidsson played first line minutes all year. While Fiala played on the fourth, third, and second lines at different parts of the season.
The pros
There are merits to throwing a kid in the deep end. It might actually benefit Fiala to play on the first line so that he can receive minutes with elite talent. While Fiala will go up against the opposition’s best, he’ll have his team’s best on his side. And we know that Arvidsson is a needle mover who can drive play, no matter what line he’s on. Maybe letting Arvidsson drive his own line while letting Fiala play with the best is a good move?
The cons
I never think breaking a strength to address a weakness is a good thing. Breaking up a top five line in the NHL is never a good thing. Although this case is a little different seeing as there’s a player primed for the role. One in the hand is worth two in the bush, and right now the Nashville Predators have one in the hand with the JoFA line.
My thoughts
Personally, I think the second line is the perfect place for him to learn. Nick Bonino and Craig Smith are good offensive linemates who will help Fiala score.
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Kevin Fiala will likely grow into an elite offensive player who could one day outperform Arvidsson or Forsberg. But until then, a place on the second line is perfect for Fiala.