The Greatest Nashville Predators of All Time

Ranker Hockey
Updated May 18, 2024 20.4K views 54 items
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11.8K votes
1.5K voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the best hockey players based on their careers with the Nashville Predators.
Latest additions: Joel Ward, Sergei Kostitsyn, James Neal
Most divisive: Alexander Radulov
Over 1.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Nashville Predators

List of the greatest Nashville Predators of all time. The Nashville Predators were founded in 1998 in the Central Division of the NHL's Western Conference. The 2013-2014 saw great players like Shea Weber and Mike Fisher, but all through the Predators's history, there have been some truly amazing hockey players out on the rink.

The Nashville Predators are encouraged by the love and support of their mascot, Gnash and play at the Bridgestone Arena. Fans often throw catfish onto the ice after a goal, a nod to the octopus throwing tradition of one of the NHL's original teams, the Detroit Red Wings. The players on this list are the best of the best who have ever skated for the Predators, including Scott Hartnell and others.

The Nashville Predators have yet to win a Stanley Cup, but these players are truly great. Vote up the best Predators below and see where your favorites rank!
  • Pekka Rinne
    1
    659 votes

    One of the most iconic goaltenders to grace the NHL, Pekka Rinne's extraordinary skills between the pipes have propelled the Nashville Predators to new heights. Known for his impressive agility and unwavering focus, Rinne has safeguarded the Predators' net for over a decade with his exceptional reflexes and fearless puck-stopping abilities. A franchise cornerstone, Rinne's remarkable consistency and resilience have been vital in the team's ongoing pursuit of hockey glory.

  • Roman Josi
    2
    507 votes
    Age: 34

    As a formidable force on the Predators' blue line, Roman Josi has time and again demonstrated his incredible talent as a two-way defenseman. Possessing an uncanny ability to read the game and anticipate opponents' moves, Josi plays a vital role in Nashville's success both offensively and defensively. With his smooth skating, pinpoint passing, and leadership skills, Josi has cemented his status as one of the most dynamic players in the league.

  • votes needed!
    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #44
      James Neal
      1 votes
    • NEW
      #39
      Ryan Johansen
      1 votes
  • Shea Weber
    3
    503 votes
    Age: 38

    As a former stalwart on the Predators' blue line, Shea Weber left an indelible mark on the franchise with his powerful slap shot and imposing physical presence. With a seemingly effortless blend of skill, strength, and leadership, Weber was a true force to be reckoned with during his tenure in Nashville. His penchant for delivering bone-crushing hits and unleashing blistering shots from the point made him a fan favorite and earned him a place among the NHL's elite defensemen.

  • Filip Forsberg
    4
    429 votes

    A prodigious offensive talent, Filip Forsberg has dazzled Nashville fans with his electrifying scoring prowess and silky-smooth puck handling. Renowned for his quick release and pinpoint accuracy, Forsberg has become an offensive fulcrum for the Predators, consistently making highlight-reel plays that leave opponents - and spectators - in awe. His innate ability to create something out of nothing endears him to fans while also striking fear into the hearts of opposing defenders.

  • Mike Fisher
    5
    338 votes

    As a consummate professional both on and off the ice, Mike Fisher's tenure with the Nashville Predators was marked by unwavering commitment, gritty determination, and an uncanny ability to step up in clutch situations. With his superb two-way play and natural leadership qualities, Fisher proved instrumental in guiding the team through deep playoff runs and navigating treacherous waters in the hunt for the ultimate prize. His relentless work ethic, infectious enthusiasm, and dogged perseverance have endeared him to the hearts of Predators fans everywhere.

  • David Legwand
    6
    249 votes

    A true pioneer for the Nashville Predators, David Legwand carried the mantle of offensive catalyst during the team's formative years in the league. With a deadly combination of speed, skill, and deceptive playmaking abilities, Legwand bewildered opposing defenders and netminders alike. His legacy as one of the franchise's first true stars remains etched in the annals of Predators history.

  • Paul Kariya
    7
    314 votes

    Though his time with the Nashville Predators was relatively brief, Paul Kariya made an indelible impact on the team with his dazzling skill set and relentless pursuit of excellence. As an offensive wizard capable of creating scoring chances seemingly at will, Kariya's prowess with the puck captivated fans and flustered opponents in equal measure. While his tenure in Nashville may not have been lengthy, his impact on the franchise remains undeniable.

  • Tomáš Vokoun
    8
    204 votes

    As a former stalwart in the Nashville Predators' crease, Tomáš Vokoun's extraordinary goaltending skills were the backbone of the team's early successes. With his cat-like reflexes and razor-sharp focus, Vokoun backstopped the Predators through thick and thin, establishing himself as one of the NHL's premier netminders of his era. As one of the key architects of the team's initial playoff appearances, Vokoun's place in Predators lore is unquestionable.

  • Mattias Ekholm
    9
    206 votes

    A model of consistency and reliability, Mattias Ekholm has been a rock on the Predators' blue line since his arrival in Nashville. Displaying an uncanny ability to shut down opposing offenses with his sound positional play, Ekholm is a defensive stalwart who also possesses a keen offensive sensibility. With his superb skating ability and strong hockey IQ, he has emerged as one of the team's most dependable and versatile players.

  • Viktor Arvidsson
    10
    208 votes

    Viktor Arvidsson

    As one of the most tenacious forwards in the game, Viktor Arvidsson has earned a reputation as a relentless forechecker and a constant source of energy for the Nashville Predators. With lightning-quick speed and a fearless attitude, Arvidsson is a true embodiment of the Predators' relentless, never-say-die approach to the game. His unyielding work ethic and penchant for finding the back of the net have made him an invaluable asset to the team.

  • Kimmo Timonen
    11
    229 votes

    During his tenure with the Nashville Predators, Kimmo Timonen was a beacon of stability and intelligence on the blue line. Known for his exceptional hockey sense and unwavering poise under pressure, Timonen consistently demonstrated an ability to read plays and neutralize oncoming threats. As one of the Predators' all-time great defensemen, his contributions to the team's rise to prominence are forever etched in its history.

  • Ryan Suter
    12
    251 votes
    Age: 39

    Known for his ability to eat up minutes and consistently deliver a reliable two-way game, Ryan Suter left an indelible mark on the Predators during his tenure in Nashville. With a silky-smooth skating stride and uncanny vision on the ice, Suter was a master at controlling the game's pace and dictating play from the blue line. His unflappable demeanor and keen hockey instincts made him a cornerstone of the team's defensive corps and a trusted leader on and off the ice.

  • Jason Arnott
    13
    164 votes

    A true leader and impact player, Jason Arnott brought a wealth of experience and skill to the Nashville Predators during his tenure with the team. Strong on the puck and possessing a wicked shot, Arnott was an offensive catalyst who consistently came through in clutch moments. His leadership, both on and off the ice, played a vital role in the growth and maturation of the Predators as they emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the NHL.

  • Peter Forsberg
    14
    307 votes

    Although his time with the Nashville Predators was brief, Peter Forsberg's legendary talent and playmaking abilities left a lasting impression on the team and its fans. With otherworldly vision and silky-smooth hands, Forsberg was a dazzling force on the ice, capable of creating offense seemingly out of thin air. While his stint in Nashville may have been fleeting, the impact of his elite skill and presence was undoubtedly felt and appreciated by all who witnessed his brief tenure with the Predators.

  • Jordin Tootoo
    15
    181 votes

    As an agitator par excellence, Jordin Tootoo's tenacity and ferocity on the ice were integral to the Nashville Predators' identity during his time with the team. Known for his relentless physicality and willingness to take on all comers, Tootoo was a fan favorite and a force to be reckoned with every time he hit the ice. His ability to get under opponents' skin and create space for his teammates remains a hallmark of his time in Nashville.

  • P. K. Subban
    16
    371 votes

    With a magnetic personality and a flair for the dramatic, P.K. Subban quickly became a fan favorite during his time with the Nashville Predators. His exceptional skating ability, booming shot, and offensive creativity combined to make Subban a truly electrifying force on the Predators' blue line. Embodying both intensity and exuberance on the ice, Subban played a crucial role in Nashville's deep playoff runs and provided countless memorable moments for the team and its fans.

  • Matt Duchene
    17
    81 votes

    As a highly skilled forward with a knack for finding the back of the net, Matt Duchene has proven to be a valuable addition to the Nashville Predators' offensive arsenal. Possessing incredible hockey sense, deceptive speed, and pinpoint passing abilities, Duchene has made significant contributions to the team's scoring depth and overall success. Combining his persistent work ethic with a natural affinity for the game, Duchene has become an integral piece of the Predators' core.

  • Jean-Pierre Dumont
    18
    179 votes

    During his tenure with the Nashville Predators, Jean-Pierre Dumont consistently demonstrated his ability to excel in both offensive and defensive roles. As a versatile forward with a natural scoring touch, Dumont proved himself to be a valuable asset in key moments and an essential component of the Predators' depth. His unwavering dedication and tenacity on the ice earned him a well-deserved place among Nashville's most respected players.

  • Scott Hartnell
    19
    154 votes

    Known for his gritty, hard-nosed approach to the game, Scott Hartnell left an indelible mark on the Nashville Predators during his two separate stints with the team. As a powerful forward who was never afraid to mix it up in the corners or in front of the net, Hartnell was a consistent source of energy and physicality. His relentless drive and blue-collar mentality endeared him to the Nashville fan base and solidified his place in the team's history.

  • Martin Erat
    20
    165 votes

    A skilled and creative playmaker, Martin Erat was a model of consistency during his time with the Nashville Predators. As a dependable forward who could be counted on in all situations, Erat exhibited an uncanny ability to find open teammates and create scoring opportunities. His smooth style of play and unwavering determination made him an integral part of the Predators' success during his tenure in Nashville.

  • Patric Hörnqvist
    21
    161 votes

    As a tireless worker with a penchant for scoring goals in tight spaces, Patric Hörnqvist made a significant impact during his time with the Nashville Predators. Known for his fearlessness in battling for position in front of opposing goaltenders, Hörnqvist demonstrated an uncanny ability to score gritty, hard-fought goals. His relentless energy and willingness to sacrifice his body for the greater good endeared him to fans and teammates alike.

  • Steve Sullivan
    22
    167 votes

    A dynamic offensive talent, Steve Sullivan dazzled Nashville Predators fans with his exceptional speed and playmaking abilities during his time with the team. As a crafty forward capable of making defenders look foolish with his quick hands and elusive moves, Sullivan was a spark plug that ignited the Predators' offense on countless occasions. His relentless determination and undeniable skill propelled him to become one of the most memorable players in franchise history.

  • Dan Hamhuis
    23
    121 votes

    As a dependable defenseman known for his steady presence on the blue line, Dan Hamhuis contributed significantly to the Nashville Predators' success during his two stints with the team. With sound positional play, strong hockey instincts, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates, Hamhuis provided crucial stability to the Predators' defensive corps. His work ethic and consistency made him a trusted and respected figure within the organization.

  • Calle Järnkrok
    24
    94 votes

    A versatile and intelligent forward, Calle Järnkrok has become a reliable contributor for the Nashville Predators since his arrival in the league. Displaying strong defensive instincts and impressive hockey IQ, Järnkrok excels in a variety of roles, from penalty killing to providing timely offensive contributions when needed. His adaptability and consistency have made him an invaluable asset to the Predators' roster.

  • Alexander Radulov
    25
    177 votes

    With tantalizing skill and electrifying offensive abilities, Alexander Radulov left a lasting impression on the Nashville Predators during his time with the team. As a highly-skilled forward with a nose for the net, Radulov was a constant threat to opponents, using his hands, speed, and creativity to produce highlight-reel moments. Though his tenure with the Predators was marred by off-ice issues, Radulov undoubtedly displayed remarkable talent and potential during his time in Nashville.

  • Cliff Ronning
    26
    87 votes

    As one of the early stars of the Nashville Predators, Cliff Ronning made a significant impact on the franchise with his impressive playmaking abilities and swift skating. A dynamic offensive talent, Ronning was instrumental in putting Nashville on the NHL map and giving fans something to cheer about in the team's formative years. His leadership and skill on the ice have ensured his place among the pantheon of Predators greats.

  • Colin Wilson
    27
    105 votes

    During his time with the Nashville Predators, Colin Wilson displayed a powerful combination of speed, skill, and determination. As a relentless forechecker and versatile forward, Wilson was a regular contributor to the Predators' offensive efforts, and his physicality added an extra layer of intimidation to the team's overall game. His dedication to his craft earned him a well-deserved reputation as a reliable and valuable member of the team.

  • Greg Johnson
    28
    75 votes

    A consummate leader and a skilled two-way center, Greg Johnson was instrumental in shaping the early identity of the Nashville Predators. As captain, he provided the young franchise with valuable experience, leadership, and a relentless drive to succeed. Johnson's impact on the Predators extended far beyond the ice, as he helped foster a culture of determination and professionalism that remains embedded in the team to this day.

  • Mike Ribeiro
    29
    159 votes

    Mike Ribeiro's tenure with the Nashville Predators showcased his dazzling playmaking abilities and vision on the ice. As a creative center with a penchant for setting up teammates with precise passes, Ribeiro played a crucial role in bolstering the Predators' offensive attack. While his time in Nashville may have been brief, his contributions to the team's success are undeniable.

  • Scott Walker
    30
    78 votes

    As a gritty, heart-and-soul player, Scott Walker became a fan favorite during his time with the Nashville Predators. Known for his tenacity, physicality, and willingness to stand up for his teammates, Walker never backed down from a challenge and embodied the relentless spirit of the early Predators teams. His fearlessness and dedication endeared him to both fans and teammates alike, securing his legacy as one of the most beloved figures in franchise history.

  • Kyle Turris
    31
    44 votes

    As a gifted playmaker with a strong two-way game, Kyle Turris has proven to be a valuable addition to the Nashville Predators' lineup since joining the team. Possessing exceptional vision, hockey sense, and passing abilities, Turris has contributed significantly to the Predators' offensive depth. His reliable presence in all situations and dedication to his craft have solidified his role as an integral part of the team.

  • Marek Židlický
    32
    61 votes

    During his time with the Nashville Predators, Marek Židlický demonstrated his immense talent as an offensive-minded defenseman. Known for his excellent puck-moving skills, vision, and power-play prowess, Židlický played a significant role in bolstering the Predators' blue line and creating scoring opportunities. His skill set and contributions to the team's early success have left a lasting impression on the franchise.

  • Mike Dunham
    33
    79 votes

    As one of the foundational goaltenders in the Nashville Predators' history, Mike Dunham was instrumental in the team's early development. With his steady presence and composure in the net, Dunham helped guide the young franchise through its formative years, often facing a barrage of shots from opposing teams. His resilience and commitment to the team's growth solidified his place in the hearts of Predators fans.

  • Karlis Skrastins
    34
    52 votes
    Dec. at 37 (1974-2011)

    As a fearless and dependable defenseman, Karlis Skrastins made a significant impact on the Nashville Predators during his tenure with the team. Known for his exceptional shot-blocking abilities and ironman streak of 495 consecutive games, Skrastins consistently put his body on the line for the betterment of the team. His unwavering commitment and dedication to the game earned him a well-deserved reputation as a warrior on the ice.

  • Vladimír Országh
    35
    61 votes

    As a tenacious winger with a keen ability to score in tight spaces, Vladimír Országh made a name for himself in the Nashville Predators' early years. Renowned for his relentless work ethic and strong positional play, Országh played an important role in defining the team's identity as a gritty, hard-working unit. His fearlessness on the ice and commitment to his teammates left a lasting impact on the franchise.

  • Vitali Yachmenev
    36
    51 votes

    As a skilled winger known for his strong work ethic and offensive prowess, Vitali Yachmenev made a significant impact during the early years of the Nashville Predators. His relentless pursuit of the puck and ability to create chances in the offensive zone served as a vital component of the team's emerging identity. Yachmenev's contributions to the Predators' growth helped lay the foundation for the franchise's future success.

  • Jerred Smithson
    37
    51 votes

    Jerred Smithson

    Age: 45

    A hardworking, blue-collar forward, Jerred Smithson embodied the spirit of the Nashville Predators during his tenure with the team. Renowned for his exceptional faceoff skills, penalty-killing prowess, and commitment to the defensive side of the game, Smithson was a reliable presence in the Predators' bottom-six forward group. His selfless play and dedication to the team have earned him a well-deserved place in the hearts of Predators fans.

  • Sergejs Žoltoks
    38
    53 votes
    Dec. at 31 (1972-2004)

    Remembered for his heart and determination, Sergejs Žoltoks was a valuable player for the Nashville Predators during his time with the team. As a versatile forward who could contribute both offensively and defensively, Žoltoks provided the Predators with dependable depth and an unwavering commitment to the game. His spirit and dedication to his craft continue to be admired by fans and teammates alike.

  • Ryan Johansen
    39
    1 votes

    Ryan Johansen

  • Craig Smith
    40
    1 votes

    Craig Smith

  • Colton Sissons
    41
    1 votes

    Colton Sissons

  • Ryan Ellis
    42
    1 votes
    Age: 33
    Ryan James Ellis (born January 3, 1991) is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman for the Philadelphia Flyers of the National Hockey League (NHL). Ellis was drafted eleventh overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
  • Joel Ward
    43
    1 votes
    Age: 43
    Joel Randal Ward (born December 2, 1980) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey right winger who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, Washington Capitals and San Jose Sharks.
  • James Neal
    44
    1 votes
    Age: 36
    James Neal (born September 3, 1987), nicknamed The Real Deal, is a Canadian professional ice hockey winger for the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL). While playing junior ice hockey with the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), he was selected in the second round, 33rd overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. After one season with the Stars' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Iowa Stars, Neal played his NHL rookie year with Dallas in 2008–09. During his third NHL season, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he played four seasons before being traded to the Nashville Predators. After three seasons with the Predators, Neal was selected in the 2017 NHL Expansion Draft by the Vegas Golden Knights.
  • Sergei Krivokrasov
    45
    37 votes

    One of the original members of the Nashville Predators, Sergei Krivokrasov brought a potent combination of skill, speed, and experience to the expansion team. With a deft scoring touch and a determined work ethic, Krivokrasov provided the young Predators with an early glimpse of offensive potential. His contributions to the team's inaugural season laid the groundwork for the high-scoring teams that would follow in Nashville's history.

  • Jan Hlaváč
    46
    43 votes

    During his brief tenure with the Nashville Predators, Jan Hlaváč contributed to the team's offensive depth as a skilled winger. Possessing a natural scoring touch and strong hockey sense, Hlaváč showcased his capacity to put the puck in the net and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His offensive contributions, while fleeting, were instrumental in the team's ongoing success.

  • Patric Kjellberg
    47
    48 votes

    As a versatile forward who could contribute in various roles, Patric Kjellberg played an important part in the Nashville Predators' early years. With a keen sense for finding open space and making smart plays on both ends of the ice, Kjellberg was a consummate team player who gave his all for the Predators. His dedication, work ethic, and adaptability left a lasting impact on the young franchise.

  • Petr Tenkrát
    48
    36 votes

    Petr Tenkrát

    Age: 47

    During his brief stint with the Nashville Predators, Petr Tenkrát showcased his offensive instincts and quick hands as a winger. Despite limited ice time, Tenkrát made the most of his opportunities, providing the team with timely offensive contributions and showcasing his skill set. Although his time in Nashville was fleeting, his impact on the ice was certainly felt.

  • Richard Lintner
    49
    36 votes

    A skilled defenseman with a strong offensive upside, Richard Lintner showcased his abilities during his time with the Nashville Predators. Possessing a powerful shot and impressive skating ability, Lintner was a valuable asset on the blue line, often jumping into the play to create scoring opportunities. While his time in Nashville was brief, his contributions to the team's defensive depth were significant.

  • Jan Lasak
    50
    36 votes
    Age: 45

    As a goaltender for the Nashville Predators, Jan Lasak brought a sense of optimism and potential to the team's crease during his tenure. Though limited in his appearances, Lasak demonstrated flashes of brilliance and impressive athleticism, providing the Predators with hope for the future between the pipes. His time with the team may have been brief, but his potential impact and steady presence in net left a lasting impression on the organization.

  • Linus Klasen
    51
    37 votes

    Linus Klasen

    Age: 38

    Despite a limited tenure with the Nashville Predators, Linus Klasen displayed promising skill and offensive capabilities as a forward. Known for his quick hands and ability to create scoring chances, Klasen provided the team with glimpses of his potential during his brief stint in Nashville. While his time with the Predators may have been fleeting, his impact on the ice showcased a tantalizing offensive talent that fans won't soon forget.

  • Marian Cisar
    52
    33 votes

    Marian Cisar

    Age: 49

    As a winger with a strong work ethic and solid two-way game, Marian Cisar made valuable contributions to the Nashville Predators during his tenure with the team. Equipped with impressive hockey sense and a relentless drive to succeed, Cisar provided the Predators with a dependable presence in their forward group. Though his time with the franchise was brief, his commitment to the team and contributions on the ice remain part of the Predators' early history.

  • Sergei Kostitsyn
    53
    1 votes

    Sergei Kostitsyn

  • Markus Granlund
    54
    1 votes
    Kari Markus Granlund (born 16 April 1993) is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who is currently playing with the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL). He is a second round selection of the Calgary Flames, taken 45th overall at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Granlund played two seasons in the SM-liiga for HIFK before moving to North America to join the Flames organization in 2013. His older brother Mikael is also an NHL player for the Nashville Predators.