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5 reasons why Nashville Predators will win Stanley Cup

By Derek Grochowski

NASHVILLE, TN - JUNE 11: Catfish are seen on the ice during the playing of the national anthem prior to the start of Game Six of the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Nashville Predators at the Bridgestone Arena on June 11, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - JUNE 11: Catfish are seen on the ice during the playing of the national anthem prior to the start of Game Six of the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Nashville Predators at the Bridgestone Arena on June 11, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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WINNIPEG, MB – MARCH 25: Paul Stastny
WINNIPEG, MB – MARCH 25: Paul Stastny /

3. Plenty of options at center

The Predators are strong on defense; however, their depth at center is even more impressive. Strong play by centers can make or break a team’s chances in the playoffs. It is one of the most important positions on the ice and Nashville has five good ones. Because of this, when the Predators are healthy they can slide a player to the wing. As the playoffs roll on and players get injured the depth players take on expanded roles. All five of the centers on the Nashville Predators can play effectively; their great level of play allows for the Predators to have a high level of lineup flexibility.

It all starts with Ryan Johansen. The young center was added to the team in a blockbuster trade for Seth Jones, and has been great for Nashville since he arrived. His production was not the same as last season, but he has carried the load of top-line center minutes. Last playoffs Johansen suffered a season-ending injury in the Western Conference finals and the team struggled in his absences ultimately losing in the Stanley Cup Final.

Last season the Predators did not have the same level of depth as right now. The addition of Nick Bonino is the offseason and Kyle Turris in a midseason trade are a major boost to the lineup. Not to mention the Predators got a free addition at the trade deadline when Mike Fisher came out of retirement. The depth at center and the flexibility the Predators have will be another major factor when the Predators win the Stanley Cup.

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