Nashville Predators Stars Face Tough Task of Bouncing Back in 2025-26
The Nashville Predators had a rough 2024-25 season, with numerous issues that are unlikely to be fully resolved in 2025-26. However, there are areas where we can expect improvement, especially from the team’s star players.
The core group of the Predators—including Filip Forsberg, Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, Ryan O’Reilly, Roman Josi, Brady Skjei, and Juuse Saros—all had underwhelming performances last season. It’s reasonable to expect a bounce-back for at least a few of these players, but fans should manage their expectations when it comes to the scale of their recovery.
Expect Improvement, but Not Miraculous Turnarounds for Predators’ Stars in 2025-26
One of the biggest issues for Nashville last season was poor shooting percentages and an inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, particularly among the forwards. Forsberg, for example, posted a shooting percentage of just 11%, but his underlying numbers were still strong. Despite an 18-game goalless slump, Forsberg averaged nearly an assist per game, signaling that he remains a significant offensive threat. It’s unlikely he’ll have another season as poor as 2024-25.
Marchessault also struggled with a low shooting percentage (10.2%) and, while he was one of the more effective signings from Nashville’s busy offseason, he hasn’t been the game-changer the Predators had hoped for. His overall numbers dropped sharply last season, and his aging legs and lack of speed raise concerns about his ability to be a top offensive contributor moving forward.
Stamkos and O’Reilly are two forwards that pose the greatest concern. Stamkos’ numbers at even strength have been consistently weak, and there’s little evidence to suggest a significant improvement is coming. O’Reilly’s struggles are even more concerning; his offensive numbers have dropped off, and at 31, he may no longer be able to contribute as a top-line center.
Josi, typically one of the most reliable players on the team, is facing his own challenges. Between his age, concussion history, and recent medical issues, he’s no longer a lock to return to elite form. While it’s possible he could bounce back, his peak may have already passed.
Skjei, a signing that raised eyebrows last season, had an even worse year than expected. His performance was below par, both in terms of raw stats and advanced metrics, and there were times when he seemed out of sync with the team. At 31, he still has the potential for a rebound, but it’s far from guaranteed.
The biggest concern, however, is goaltender Juuse Saros. Signed as the future of the franchise, Saros struggled last season despite several strong performances. The Predators need him to step up and deliver more consistent play, especially given the defensive issues in front of him. There’s no assurance he’ll be able to shoulder the load if the team’s defensive struggles continue.
Unlikely All Predators Stars Will Fully Bounce Back
While it’s possible Forsberg could enjoy a true rebound in 2025-26, it’s less likely that all of the Predators’ stars will find their best form. For a full recovery from the key players, everything would have to fall into place perfectly—and that’s not guaranteed. The reality will likely fall somewhere in between, with some players improving but not all the way back to their previous peaks.
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