200 points?
Few are the lines that compare with the Nashville Predators’ top line of forwards. Last year, of all lines of forwards with 500 or more minutes on the ice together, Nashville’s top line was fourth in CorsiFor%. Oddly enough, they were outdone by their teammates on the second line. The combination of Filip Forsberg, Ryan Johansen, and Viktor Arvidsson also finished fifth in the league in Expected Goals For Percentage.
Last season, the JoFA line achieved 179 points. It was 180 the year before. This year, expect big things.
Bold Prediction: JoFA line will reach 200 combined points.
Forsberg will earn at least 40 goals, and finish with 70 points. Both Johansen and Arvidsson will earn over 60 points. We have witnessed Forsberg’s drive and desire to score, pushing him to elite levels. Johansen looked to net the puck more in the preseason, something he has not done in Nashville. And Arvidsson will continue this energetic, gritty play.
When the dust settles and the season is complete, Nashville’s top line will firmly be one of league’s best.