2019-Present Day: Predators Have Settled Down and are Quiet
The 2019-20 marked the first shortened season since the 2012-13 season. In 69 games, the Predators placed fourth in the central and were sent to the qualifying round to take on the Arizona Coyotes. In four games, the Coyotes took down the Predators and sent them home. The following season we saw Nashville play 56 games and match with the Carolina Hurricanes. As if two straight first-round exits weren't enough, the Predators again were eliminated after falling 4-2. This is where we saw the rise of Juuse Saros as the future starter for Nashville.
After taking the last wildcard spot in the west, we were forced to take on the eventual Stanley Cup winning Colorado Avalanche. We were put to shame really quick with the absence of Saros for the series, getting swept 4-0. For the first time in eight seasons, the Predators missed the playoffs despite a late season push for a spot. GM David Poile retired, and Head Coach John Hynes was fired, marking a new era for Nashville.
With Andrew Brunette behind the bench, the Predators returned to the playoffs but fell in the first round to the Canucks 4-2. GM Barry Trotz added superstars Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei to the lineup in free agency in hopes of a cup run. In the current season, the Predators missed the playoffs and are looking to enter a retool, potentially extending our playoff absence for a couple of seasons.
Without a doubt, the Predators have seen it all. From the beginning five seasons as a basement team to the latest ten as a strong playoff contending team, Nashville has stood tall and gave it their all. We should all look back at where this team began and be proud of what it has become.