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Power Ranking the remaining Nashville Predators Training Camp Roster Bubble players

The Predators have cut down to 28 players with only their preseason finale on October 4 remaining before the regular season begins.
ByChad Minton|
Dec 12, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Nashville Predators right wing Jonathan Marchessault (81) and defenseman Nick Blankenburg (37) and defenseman Brady Skjei (76) celebrate during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Nashville Predators at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Dec 12, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Nashville Predators right wing Jonathan Marchessault (81) and defenseman Nick Blankenburg (37) and defenseman Brady Skjei (76) celebrate during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Nashville Predators at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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Nick Blankenburg, Nashville Predators
Apr 6, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators defenseman Nick Blankenburg (37) passes the puck against the Montreal Canadiens during the second period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

3. Nick Blankenburg (60 games for Nashville Predators in 2024-25)

I only have Blankenburg included in the roster bubble players because the Predators defensive depth is loaded with possible starters. I would like to say that Blankenburg is a lock, and him playing on the right side certainly helps his cause. Not to mention how commendable he played last season during a very difficult year for the team in general.

This is why I have Blankenburg ranked so high in my top-5 of roster bubble players. I leave the small possibility he could be overlooked, but that would be a mistake as he would have to be waived and likely be claimed by someone else. He does too many things well to just waive him, but I also cannot completely rule that out because the Predators have some prospects they really like who could steal a spot from him.

Ultimately the Predators should retain Blankenburg, especially considering that Hague is out for possibly the first month of the regular season. When you account for the roster locks, Blankenburg probably slots in really on any of the three pairings. It's really hard to pinpoint where he could be placed, but I do think it's highly likely he is starting on opening night.

Blankenburg set NHL career highs in game played, points, assists, blocks, time on ice and shots on goal in 2024-25. He is signed for one more season and hits unrestricted free agency in 2026, so we should probably keep an eye out on his trade value as well. No way he gets waived, but at the same time I'm keeping him in my roster bubble players. Crazier things have happened.

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