SMASHVILLE –
As we prepared for the start of our 25th Anniversary season last summer, we were planning events and opportunities to commemorate the organization’s past; from David Poile night to a remembrance of our first-ever game, to a night honoring our past captains, and more, creating GOLDen moments for our silver celebration. All the while, we were optimistic about our future, one which would be scripted by our new general manager and head coach; Barry Trotz and Andrew Brunette. Bringing them back to SMASHVILLE in these new roles on its own was fitting but to do so going into our 25th Anniversary campaign was even more special due to their influence in forging what we all enjoy today!
What we weren’t planning on or fully expecting was a 2023-24 season that will go down as one of the best regular seasons in our history: 99 points, a 16-0-2 record to set the longest points streak in our history, a team-record 48 goals from Filip Forsberg and NHL Award finalist recognitions for captain Roman Josi (the Norris Trophy) and coach Andrew Brunette (Jack Adams). Quite the season indeed – exceeding every external expectation for the Predators.
Yes, the six-game series loss to the Vancouver Canucks in the first round of the playoffs was disappointing, but we move forward with great memories, key learnings, relentless determination and vigor to drop the puck on the 2024-25 season.
As we continue to look back upon 2023-24, all of us in the organization - players, staff, coaches – do so in wonderment and with gratitude for our community and especially our fans. SMASHVILLE is truly a city with no limits, and it was electric once again all season. The incredible support of the players on and off the ice from opening day right through game six was amazing and not replicated in any other city in sports! The way every fan, every member of SMASHVILLE Loyal and each of our partners raised their levels of support and passion during the 2024 Stanley Cup® Playoffs, while not surprising, was so appreciated by all of us!
Only in Bridgestone Arena is a team supported by its fans with standing ovations like those we experienced this postseason. It is a tradition like no other in the NHL and we thank you for that incredible support. Our great fans are truly the heartbeat of SMASHVILLE.
Thank you!!
Sean
