Forwards:
The Predators were a busy team during the off-season signing and resigning players.

Topping the list of players they signed are center Jason Arnott and right wing J.P. Dumont. Arnott had 32 goals and 44 assists last season with the Dallas Stars, and J.P Dumont had 20 goals and 20 assists in 54 games with the Buffalo Sabres. Both are strong additions.

Nashville also signed Ramzi Abid, who only played in six games with the Atlanta Thrashers. He mainly played for the AHL’s Chicago Wolves last season, where he had 76 points in 75 games.

Coming back to the Predators are Scott Hartnell (48 points in 81 games), Martin Erat (49 points in 80 games) and David Legwand (26 points in 44 games).

Jordin Tootoo will remain in the Predators system this season, and I would expect to see him in the NHL more this year.

Expect to see Martin Erat on the first line with Paul kariya. Jason Arnott will be a teacher for youngster Legwand.


Defense:
The Predators signed Alex Henry, who will bring a lot of physical presence.

Nashville also signed another punisher in big man Nolan Yonkman. Yonkman has incredible size and strength, but is injury prone.

Marek Zidlicky (49 points in 67 games), Kimmo Timonen (50 points in 79 games),Ryan Suter and Dan Hamhuis will be returning.


Goaltending:
The good news for Predators fans is that Tomas Vokoun is resigned, healthy and ready to play. After the inability to play after being diagnosed with pelvic thrombophlebitis (a blood condition creates clots) last April, Vokoun feels good and is ready to get back in net.

Last year before he stopped playing, Vokoun had a record of 36-18-7 with a 2.6 goals against average and a .919 save percentage.

Back up goaltender Chris Mason was also resigned by the club.