Nashville Predators: 2021-22 Fantasy Hockey “Pred”ictions-Part 2
By Max Ritz
EELI TOLVANEN (RW)
2020/2021 Totals: 11 Goals, 11 Assists, 22 Points in 40 Games Played
My oh my, what a summer it has been from an RFA standpoint for the Nashville Predators.
Considering the youth movement that has been a focal point since the resurgence in the second half of the 2020-21 season, led by Juuse Saros and a myriad of younger pieces in the organization, none more under the microscope than Tolvanen.
Tolvanen is now fresh off inking a three-year, $4.35 Million ($1.45 Million AAV) at the end of August.
The young Finnish forward is going to be greatly counted upon in the Predators top two lines for the production that saw him set a KHL record for rookie scoring back in his draft season in 2017.
As far as fantasy production goes, Tolvanen could be a serious sleeper for managers in later rounds looking for a dynamic young winger with 45-plus point upside.
Regardless of my Predators fandom, I look at Tolvanen as a serious breakout candidate this coming season for multiple reasons and fantasy owners should keep an eye on him as you search for winger depth in the later rounds.
Must Read. Top Players Ready for Breakouts Seasons for Predators. light
Tolvanen boasts a world-class shot. One that Predators fans will remember fondly throughout many of the highlight packs that made up his 11 goals in 40 games.
That lethal shot combined with the amount of ice time Tolvanen will receive both in the top six forward group, and additionally on the power play on the opposite wing of Filip Forsberg on an even younger group than last season has all the makings of leading to a breakout campaign for the now 22-year old.
I expect big things from a fantasy perspective for Tolvanen this season as he looks to solidify himself as a consistent point producer for the Nashville Predators.
2021/2022 Prediction: 24 Goals, 22 Assists, 46 Points in 75 Games Played