2009-2014: The Predators Won Their First Playoff Rounds
After placing third in the central, we took on the Chicago Blackhawks but left the series in a 4-2 loss. We finished the season with the franchise's third 100-point season up until that point and hopes were high for the future. The next season, we saw history made in Nashville. The Predators entered the first round with a comfortable 2nd place finish in the central with 99 points. They took the ice against the Anaheim Ducks in six games, in which they won 4-2. Unfortunately, the Preds fell to Vancouver 4-2 in the next round, but it set the stage for greatness.
With the acquisition of future captain Mike Fisher and the rise of the Weber, Suter duo, the Predators became a contender for the cup the next season. They rallied against the Red Wings but gave no mercy, eliminating them 4-1. In the second round, we encountered some locker room issues and eventually fell 4-2 against the Phoenix Coyotes.
The following two seasons saw the absence of the Preds in the postseason. The duo was split and Rinne encountered a near season-ending injury. Head Coach and later GM of the Predators Barry Trotz was fired after 15 seasons. Yet again, we saw the rise of new faces like franchise defenseman Roman Josi. It was looking very good in Nashville and fans were ecstatic to see what happened the next season.