April Fools: Why the Nashville Predators Aren't Set Up For Playoff Success

Brunette Can't Make the Playoff Adjustments

The 2021-2022 Florida Panthers were a wagon. They boatraced the league and won the Presidents Trophy with the best regular season record, going 58-18-6. That's right, they lost less than 20 regular season games in regulation. A stacked team that went all in at the deadline to bring in even more talent only won one series. They dispatched the wild card Washington Capitals 4-2 before getting taken apart by the Tampa Bay Lightning, being swept in the 2nd round.

It was likely difficult for Brunette that season. An interim coach who pushed the right buttons with his team found himself at the helm of hockey's best team, but in uncharted waters. Whatever it was he did or didn't dial up against the Lightning fell short.

Then Brunette bounced over to the New Jersey Devils and as assistant coach helped oversee another 2nd round exit. Twice is a coincidence and three times is a trend and that is not one we want forming from a head coach that should be in the Jack Adams conversation this season.