Best, Worst & More | Nashville Predators 25-26 Superlatives Ft. Ann Kimmel
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Best, Worst & More | Nashville Predators 25-26 Superlatives Ft. Ann Kimmel” inside PodZeus.
In this end-of-season special, Jack Williams and returning guest Ann Kimmel celebrate the Nashville Predators' 2025-26 campaign with a lighthearted yet insightful look at the team's superlatives. They highlight standout performances, surprising turnarounds, and key developmental moments, focusing on players who exceeded expectations. Steven Stamkos earns the Comeback Player of the Year honors for dramatically improving his game after a slow start, embracing a new role at the net front. Eustace Ananen is praised as the biggest surprise, transforming from a struggling goaltender to a reliable presence by season's end. The young players shine too, with Ryan Ufko and Reed Schaefer earning recognition as top AHL call-ups, while Matthew Wood emerges as the clear Rookie of the Year with a breakout 20-goal season. The discussion turns to high-ceiling players, with Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Shea both receiving thoughtful defense despite underwhelming seasons, emphasizing their untapped potential. The MVP debate culminates in a passionate case for Philip Forsberg as the team’s most valuable player, followed by a strong endorsement of Ryan O'Reilly’s off-ice leadership and cultural impact, which both hosts believe surpasses even on-ice stats.
Steven Stamkos transformed his game late in the season by embracing a front-of-net role, proving veteran players can adapt and excel.
Eustace Ananen’s quiet, patient comeback from a rough start to becoming a reliable starter is one of the season’s most inspiring stories.
Matthew Wood’s breakout season as a 20-goal scorer and versatile center shows he has franchise-changing potential.
Ryan O'Reilly’s leadership and locker room presence are arguably more valuable than his point totals, making him the team’s most important off-ice asset.
Brady Shea and Jonathan Marchessault still have high ceilings, but their current disconnect with the system needs to be addressed.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Season Wrap-Up & Superlatives Kickoff
Jack Williams and Ann Kimmel open the episode with a fun, upbeat tone, introducing the superlatives format and setting the stage for a celebration of the Predators' season. They highlight the grilled cheese at Bridgestone Arena and preview the segments: comebacks, young players, and best/worst.
Comeback Players of the Year: Stamkos & Ananen
“For me, I am shocked and amazed and kind of proud that Steven Stamkos was able to do what he did the way he did it this year. Just shocking to me what we got to see from him by the end of the season.”
Biggest Surprises: Blankenberg & Youth Movement
“Just a huge, massive surprise in my opinion for the Preds this year.”
Rookie & Call-Up Breakouts
“He's a guy that really can earn a full-time spot here and just talking about guys that left on that fourth line... this is a guy that completely fits out the Predators' normal build.”
Highest Ceiling & MVP: Forsberg vs. O'Reilly
“If you were talking about impact on this franchise on the ice and off the ice of a player, not brought up through this system, Ryan O'Reilly is the most important guy in this franchise history.”
“If you were talking about impact on this franchise on the ice and off the ice of a player, not brought up through this system, Ryan O'Reilly is the most important guy in this franchise history.”
“For me, I am shocked and amazed and kind of proud that Steven Stamkos was able to do what he did the way he did it this year. Just shocking to me what we got to see from him by the end of the season.”
“Just a huge, massive surprise in my opinion for the Preds this year.”
Host
Guest
Nashville Predators
other
Jack Williams
person
Ann Kimmel
person
Ryan O'Reilly
person
Eustace Ananen
person
Philip Forsberg
person
Steven Stamkos
person
Matthew Wood
person
Jonathan Marchessault
person
Reed Schaefer
person
CRASHING OUT | After 3 straight losses & Wild Card Lead Slipping, Are The Predators Crashing?
Locked On Predators - Daily Podcast On The Nashville Predators • 30m • 3/31/2026
Predators’ Offseason To-Do List | UFAs, Prospect Spotlight & GM Search
Locked On Predators - Daily Podcast On The Nashville Predators • 32m • 4/1/2026
CROSSOVER: Nashville Predators Battle For Playoff Hopes Against LA Kings In 2 Major Games
Locked On Predators - Daily Podcast On The Nashville Predators • 31m • 4/2/2026
Near DISASTER | Predators Avoid Near Collapse In Critical Shootout Win Over Kings
Locked On Predators - Daily Podcast On The Nashville Predators • 31m • 4/3/2026
Mailbag Monday | Predators Playoff Hopes, Player Moves & More
Locked On Predators - Daily Podcast On The Nashville Predators • 36m • 4/6/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Best, Worst & More | Nashville Predators 25-26 Superlatives Ft. Ann Kimmel” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime
