Nashville Predators: Key Players Poised for Breakout Seasons in 2021

Keeps getting better

The story of ascension in the NHL for Rocco Grimaldi has been fun to watch, and it’s nowhere close to being over. Perhaps he hasn’t even hit his ceiling yet.

Grimaldi is going to be called upon to keep up his steady rise up the ranks on the Nashville Predators. He’s a proven veteran on this team, but will now have to adjust to new linemates after the departures of Nick Bonino and Craig Smith.

I’m not counting out Grimaldi for one second. The guy just doesn’t stop pushing to get better, and I won’t be surprised in the slightest if he manages another season of around 30 to 40 points, while his ice time should increase from his career average of 11:29.

Last season Grimaldi played in 66 of the Predators’ 69 regular season games, posting 10 goals and 21 assists. It was just his second full-time season in the NHL, with his NHL appearances before coming to Nashville all being minimal.

Look for Grimaldi to improve even more in 2021 as he’s one of the few returning players that the Predators have coming back in the bottom six. Grimaldi should also be a candidate for the second line if some younger options don’t work out.

I’d like to see Grimaldi’s goal output increase next season, and that should be conceivable. If he can come in around 15 goals and keep up his fiery pace to generate offensive pressure, then it should be another outstanding year for Grimaldi.