2 Upgrades Nashville Predators Need In The New Year

The Nashville Predators have a lot of assets, but they aren't just going to break the bank to add this season when they are just hanging around a wildcard spot. That being said, they likely won't just sit tight either. If the team is right in the hunt, they may add a couple of pieces for the right price. But even if they are, there could still be a couple of pieces sold off. Let's look at what areas those upgrades could come to or what may change.

Middle-6 Winger

The Predators have their top line loaded up, and that's because that is who is providing a lot of the offense when together. This may not last all season, but even if it does, there is a need for a top-six winger if the Predators intend on being competitive in the playoffs. With lots of assets, using one wouldn't break the bank and would show confidence in a younger team that has fought all season to be in the spot that they are. This team was projected to be much worse than they are. With Kiefer Sherwood playing in the top-six, I think the Predators would want a bit of an upgrade here.

Assets

Even if the Predators are in the race, it looks like they could sell some pieces. On defense, Tyson Barrie and Dante Fabbro seem destined to be moved eventually. At forward, there are at least five UFAs after this season who could provide value elsewhere and still be replaced internally by the Predators. This is a team in transition and I think they are currently overachieving. Once they fall out of a playoff spot, things will become more clear for them. But, as that is no certainty, adding and selling at the same time could be a realistic option. These assets the team is currently holding or could get is what will build them up and keep them at the top for a long time in the future.