If you're a hockey fan, the time post-free agent frenzy until training camps and preseason in September is two months spent in the fiery underworld of the sports world. The heat outside is unbearable, and there is almost nothing going on in the hockey world.
So, we're firing up our own flames to tell you which Nashville Predators players need to be careful sitting, because they're on the hot seat.
Jonathan Marchessault
This might seem odd to start, but Marchessault is going to need a hot start, and a good year, to keep critics off his back.
Why? Well, probably because he was openly critical of the coaching staff and the lack of changes and urgency last season. He's never been afraid of sharing his thoughts with the media, and he did just that when asked at the end of the season.
Naturally, if the team does well, or not, and he doesn't have a solid start, there is going to be some talk. Also, if he goes from making sharp statements to being disgruntled and making the locker room a divisive place, then Barry Trotz and Co will have $5.5 million problem, who has a no movement clause.
As long as Marchessault starts off well, or at the very least is consistent, he'll keep the monkey and the fans, off his back.
Luke Evangelista
This might change depending on exactly where Evangelista's number ends up on his contract, but the negotiations have stretched out a little too long. Nobody is feeling comfortable with how long the contract is taking to get signed, and even if it is a long term deal, there are going to be questions raised.
Frankly, it is fair to ask them. Evangelista had a strong start to his 2022-23 rookie year with 15 points in just 24 games, and seemed like he took a step forward in 2023-24 with 39 points. Then in 2024-25, he missed a handful of games with injuries, and a few more as a healthy scratch.
Evangelista's 2nd half was better, but going into his fourth season, he'll need to string together a full 82 games that doesn't have the big scoring gaps. If he finds himself at the halfway point of the year with five goals, like he did last season, things aren't going to be sunshine and daisies for "Vange".
Justin Barron
This isn't exactly about Barron disappointing the fans, but more so that he's playing for his NHL life. He's in his last year before reaching RFA status, and the Predators' defense is partially spoken for.
The top four slots are locked up. Then Nick Blankenburg and Andreas Englund are on one-way deals. Then there are expectations that Tanner Molendyk might make an appearance or two. Spencer Stastney is also still under contract.
So, where does that leave Barron? Well, if he's not shaking in his skates, they should be on fire, and he's gotta play solid hockey because he could be replaced at a moment's notice. He's got tantalizing talent, but he has to put it together this year.
Honorable Mention - Juuse Saros
Saros is still a fantastic goalie, and it would be really nice if he were able to get a hot start and silence some critics. If he reels off a series of wins while playing great, he'll ease a lot of the burdens felt by the team.
It also eases the burden of Justus Annunen if he can come in and just play, without having to think he has to stop a losing streak.