Emotionally in 2018
Joined: Nov. 2016
Posts: 9,290
Likes: 3,387
I think it's going to be much harder to make the playoffs for them next season, but I do see them making it. I'm not a huge fan of the Bonino signing, but if Fisher comes back it gives them some nice depth. Losing Neal is going to hurt, but I wouldn't at all be surprised if the Preds reacquire him. Losing Wilson's production may not be ideal, but shedding his salary was a must. Having Emelin on the third pairing is going to be big for them, as it should help Josi, Subban, Ekholm and Ellis stay fresher throughout the season. Fiala should have a huge season, maybe Aberg and Gaudreau have bigger roles, and maybe Saros can play better to take of a few starts from Rinne. All in all, I think they'll make it back to the playoffs, but making it back to the Finals is something I don't see happening. St. Louis and Dallas both have improved greatly, I don't think Smashville can replicate the incredibly entertaining run that they had this spring