2009 Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators had a disappointing 2008-09 season, ending up in last place in the ultra-competitive Central Division and just barely missing the playoffs (by a mere 3 points!). Lacking the capital to lure a big name to help the team out, head coach Barry Trotz has to work with what he’s got if he wants the Predators to make it back to the playoffs in the 2009-10 season. Luckily, the team has plenty of talent, like Shea Weber, Jason Arnott, Ryan Suter, J.P Dumont and Steve Sullivan (when he’s healthy). Trotz is known for getting the most out of his team even without super stars, so expect the Predators to reach the playoffs again this season. What the team needs now is lots of support from fans, so get your Sommet Center tickets and cheer your heart out for the Preds!

On June 25, 1997, the Predators joined the NHL when the league announced that four cities had been awarded expansion franchises: Nashville; Atlanta, Georgia; Columbus, Ohio; and Saint Paul, Minnesota. Businessman Craig Leipold is the majority owner of the Predators and serves as the team's chairman and chief executive officer. Davie Poile, former general manager of the Washington Capitals, is the team's general manager.

Barry Trotz is the Predators' head coach. Trotz coached the Portland Pirates of the American Hockey League (AHL) to the Calder Cup during the 1994-95 season. That same year he was named AHL coach of the year. The Predators played their first season in 1998-99. Trotz led the team to a 28-47-7 win-loss-tie record.

The Predators first took the ice on October 10, 1998, where they lost 1-0 at home to the Florida Panthers. The Nashville Predators play their home games at the Sommet Center, formerly the Gaylord Entertainment Center, which is also home to special events as well as concerts.