2. Mikael Granlund
Remember how the narrative since trading for Granlund was how the Predators lost the trade and should have kept Kevin Fiala? It’s funny how things change, because you wouldn’t know that just by watching Granlund play so far this season.
Since playing at center and being allowed to do what he does best, which is distribute the puck, Granlund has thrived, and we can clearly see it up to this point in 2021-22. He is tied for fourth on the team in assists with 22, and some of his passes have been absolutely sensational.
Granlund is also among the NHL leaders in assists this season, being in the top-10 and tied with superstars such as Leon Draisaitl, Jonathan Huberdeau and Kirill Kaprizov.
A perfect example of that was the Predators’ game on November 30 against the Blue Jackets, in which he had four primary assists. You may want to go replay those goals if you haven’t already.
Along with that, Granlund has five goals, and has been one of the key catalysts on a Predators’ offense that has taken a big step forward in the past few weeks.
We would love to see Granlund score a few more goals, but as long as he can continue to do his part and excel in his role, there will be no complaints from anyone.