While the hockey world is focused on Nashville's newest prize in P.K. Subban, Predators GM David Poile was quick to remind it of Ryan Johansen.
Acquired in a January blockbuster deal from the Columbus Blue Jackets, Johansen fit in well during his short time in the Music City, filling a long-time need at center for the Predators.
"I think Ryan is going to have his best year ever (in the NHL)," Poile told SiriusXM NHL on Monday. "I mean, that's probably a lot of pressure and I guess a challenge. But he is a No. 1 center and I would say, with all due respect, he had an off-year last year and this year his conditioning is terrific.
"His off-season has been really good. He's going to be in Nashville at the end of this week in preparation for the season and I expect him to have the best year of his career."
In 42 games with Nashville last season, the 24-year-old Johansen scored eight goals and added 26 assists. He continued to find the net in the playoffs, managing eight points in 14 games, and contributing to the Predators' third playoff series win in franchise history.
Nashville has taken on a new look under head coach Peter Laviolette, with the Preds now seen as a team that pushes the pace in the offensive zone.
"We think we're going in the right direction," Poile added. "Last year was a good step in that process by beating Anaheim in the first round and taking San Jose to the seventh game in the second round.
"So hope springs eternal here that we feel we're certainly in the mix as a good team, and a team that can compete for the Stanley Cup next year. That's what the plan is."
