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.