The Nashville Predators are eyeing potential goaltenders for the 2025 NHL Draft, following the trade of Yaroslav Askarov, leaving a gap in their goaltending future. With Juuse Saros signed through 2033, the Predators need a viable successor. Current prospects like Jakub Milota and Magnus Chrona show promise but require development to reach NHL readiness.

History suggests that the Predators have found their best goaltenders in later rounds, with stars like Pekka Rinne and Juuse Saros being late-round picks. However, amidst a thin goaltending pipeline, the Predators' scouting director has indicated a strong intention to select at least one goaltender early in the draft, focusing on top prospects Joshua Ravensbergen and Pyotr Andreyanov.

Juuse Saros, the Nashville Predators' goaltender, has seen a troubling decline in performance over the past two seasons, posting a career-low save percentage of .895 and leading the league in losses. Despite these struggles, Predators GM Barry Trotz remains unfazed, attributing Saros' performance to the overall team dynamics and defensive issues rather than solely on the goaltender himself. Saros is set to receive a significant pay increase with an eight-year, $61 million contract extension coming into effect this July, raising questions about the team's commitment to him given his recent form.

The Predators experienced challenges on defense, losing key players to injuries and trades, which Trotz believes impacted Saros' numbers. However, statistical evidence suggests that Saros' performance was not up to par even with the defensive struggles, as demonstrated by his records over the last two seasons. The franchise's decision to sign Saros long-term instead of developing other promising goaltenders like Yaroslav Askarov, who was traded, may haunt them as they navigate the upcoming season.

The Nashville Predators faced a disappointing 2024-25 season, finishing with a record of 30-44-8 and missing the playoffs for the second time in three years. Goalie Juuse Saros ended the season with his career-worst numbers, including an .895 save percentage and a 2.98 goals-against average, raising concerns about his performance. Coach Andrew Brunette pointed out that the expectations set by significant free-agent signings did not translate into results, leading to a lack of chemistry on the ice.

Saros, who previously ranked in the top five for the Vezina Trophy, struggled throughout the season but will get another chance to showcase his skills representing Finland at the IIHF World Championship. With Saros carrying an eight-year, $61.92 million contract starting next season, the pressure will be on him to rebound from this lackluster campaign.

The Nashville Predators are expected to navigate a tricky offseason, particularly concerning older players on long-term contracts. Key figures like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault could be on the chopping block, given their similar playing styles and potential to be replaced by younger talent. Meanwhile, Filip Forsberg remains critical due to his offensive capabilities, and Roman Josi's enduring presence makes him virtually untouchable. Juuse Saros is set to remain the team's cornerstone goaltender following the departure of Yaroslav Askarov, which leaves the Predators with significant decisions to make as they aim for better positioning in the upcoming season.

In Boston, the Bruins are also in transition as they work on a retool rather than a full rebuild. President Cam Neely has noted that interim coach Joe Sacco will remain part of the coaching search, and that everything is on the table regarding personnel decisions. This flexibility suggests that the Bruins might consider trading draft picks or assets to strengthen the roster. Both teams are facing pivotal moments that could redefine their trajectories.

Filip Forsberg led the charge with two goals and an assist, while Luke Evangelista contributed with a goal and two assists, as the Nashville Predators ended their four-game losing streak by defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2 on Saturday night.

Despite an early two-goal lead from Toronto, with John Tavares and Mitch Marner finding the net, Nashville fought back valiantly. Michael Bunting scored the Predators' first goal, followed by Kieffer Bellows equalizing. Forsberg then secured the lead for Nashville just before the second intermission, and Evangelista's insurance goal sealed the victory.