Dylan Samberg will miss 6-8 weeks with a broken wrist, forcing Winnipeg to reshuffle its blue line as the season opener vs Dallas approaches. The injury follows last season’s broken foot from blocking a Stamkos shot, a setback that limited him to 60 games and 20 points. Winnipeg, fresh off a Presidents’ Trophy run, must navigate the early schedule without Samberg while fantasy managers gauge which defensemen pick up extra minutes and PP time in his absence.

Jets’ depth will be tested early as they try to maintain elite pace and defensive structure. For fantasy players, the key is identifying who steps into top-four and PP roles, monitoring back-to-back nights, and adjusting rosters to capture surge nights when Winnipeg exploits favorable opponents.

The Nashville Predators are maintaining confidence in coach Andrew Brunette, despite a challenging 2024-25 season that saw the team miss the playoffs after a promising 2023-24 campaign. General manager Barry Trotz endorsed Brunette, highlighting his potential as a young coach and emphasizing the need for continuity in a team still adjusting to new talent from a bustling offseason that included signings like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. After a disappointing 30-44-8 record, Trotz believes in sticking with promising coaches and players through tough times, showing faith in Brunette's ability to navigate the Predators back to success.

Brunette, who has a solid coaching record and even earned a Jack Adams Award nomination, is expected to harness the team's new talent to return Nashville to playoff contention. The Predators’ recent struggles reflect broader issues rather than a lack of talent, pointing to a need for cohesion as they look to rebuild under Brunette's guidance.

The Nashville Predators ended their season with a dismal 30-44-8 record, leading to strong criticisms from players regarding coach Andrew Brunette's offensive system. Winger Jonathan Marchessault specifically pointed out that despite the addition of key players like himself and Steven Stamkos, the Predators ranked 31st in scoring and struggled offensively. Marchessault noted that while Brunette made adjustments defensively, the offensive strategy clearly needed reevaluation.

In light of their season's shortcomings, Marchessault called for the team to learn from the strategies of successful teams, emphasizing the necessity of adapting systems to better utilize their offensive talent. He shared insights from his tenure with the Vegas Golden Knights, where coach Bruce Cassidy was known for effective in-game adjustments. This season's performance has left the Predators with much to ponder as they prepare for the next one.