Predators Superlatives: Player Most Likely to Succeed Elsewhere in 2021
By Rich Howe
Rich Howe’s Pick – @Rich_Howe_9
When thinking of Kyle Turris’ time with the Nashville Predators, the square peg/round hole scenario comes to mind. They just didn’t fit together.
Turris had some stellar seasons in Ottawa. His best coming in the 2014-15 season, where he scored 64 points (24 goals, 40 assists). The Nashville Predators brought him into the fold for this reason.
As it’s well known, Turris didn’t bring those production numbers with him upon joining the Predators. His best during his time with the Predators was his first season in 2017-18. He scored 42 points (13 goals, 29 assists). Not bad but not up to expectations commensurate with his salary, which was a massive deal for six years and $36M.
Is it fair to point the finger squarely at Turris? Not in the least. I place the majority of the blame on then head coach Peter Laviolette. Laviolette’s system wasn’t conducive to Turris’ style of play.
When thinking of Turris moving to the Edmonton Oilers, it isn’t a matter of will he do well? Who knows the answer to that? He will be on a team with some absolute superstars in Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid, which always helps. He will also be on a team that will be hungry after their early Stanley Cup Qualifier exit.
My hope is that Turris will thrive during his time with the Oilers. After his lackluster stint with a dysfunctional Predators team, he deserves some time to shine and get back to the player he once was.