Brad Richardson, Center
Usually the saying goes, “If you can’t beat them, join them”. Well in this case, it’s “I beat you, and now I’m going to join you”.
Brad Richardson slammed the door shut on the Predators’ postseason hopes in the Stanley Cup Qualifiers by scoring the game-winning goal in overtime. That was just his second career game-winning goal in the postseason.
Richardson has seen a lot of ice time in his 15 NHL seasons, playing for four different franchises. The Predators will be his fifth as he heads into the ending of his long and respected career.
Some don’t like this move for the Predators because he isn’t going to provide really any type of heavy offense and he’s just another limited center when the team needs scoring wingers.
However, I do think Richardson will provide the role of leadership and assisting on the penalty kill and faceoff circle. He’s not going to transform this team in any major way, but he’ll serve an important purpose on the fourth line.
Fans are rightfully let down a bit because they wanted a bigger name and perhaps someone who can play alongside Matt Duchene in the top-six. Instead, you’re getting a veteran who is offensively limited and will basically be Austin Watson‘s replacement.
Grade: C