The Nashville Predators underwent a roster shakeup this offseason. With the departure of some Colton Sissons and Jeremy Lauzon and the arrival of Nicolas Hague, Nick Perbix, and Erik Haula, the franchise has gotten slightly better on paper.
We can't forget what happened last season when the team reportedly gotten way better at first glance. However, fans saw big names fail to produce to their liking. Without everyone stepping up in moments where it counts, the team suffered severely.
The new additions and increased locker room chemistry should help sail the boat again. It is with this assumption that we'll get to see some of the guys return to their former glory and even see some young guys discover it. Increased offensive and defensive talent should help propel these 3 guys in the right direction.
If Given More Opportunities, Luke Evangelista Can Become a Core Part of Smashville's Future
We rarely saw Luke Evangelista in Nashville's top six forward group. Signing Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault was the nail in the coffin to his dreams of playing more than 14 minutes a night.
However, past events could make Evangelista's dreams come true. Stamkos wasn't at his best when he played center so Head Coach Andrew Brunette might put slot him in his primary position at left wing. This allows Marchessault to move up to the first line, in turn opening up a spot for none other than Pretty Boy Vincenzo himself.
When General Manager Barry Trotz does get a deal done with the former London Knights' winger, seeing him as the team's 2nd right winger is pretty likely. Despite playing a limited role on an offensively poor team, Evangelista still managed to perform at the same level as he did the year prior. With 32 points (10 goals and 22 assists) in 68 games, he was one the Predators top performers.
If he started more shifts in the offensive zone (just 12.7% last season), his number could've gotten better. Again, he was limited as a result of the Stammer, Marchy acquisitions. I predict Vange can finally hit the 50-point mark for the first time in his career and potentially score 20 goals if he is in the top six consistently. Mark my words.