We are 9-3-1 in games that he has participated in, 8-0-1 when he has scored a point. He has averaged over a point per game; no one else on the team comes close to that scoring rate. There is no way that the goal-starved Predators would be over .500 without his offensive contribution.

It should be a surprise to no one that I’m nominating Jerred Smithson for MVP of the season so far. He has scored four goals in 20 games, which already matches his total goals scored for the entire 08-09 season. He’s still great on the penalty kill, especially when paired with Joel Ward. And I honestly think the fact that he’s playing on the second line has given him a huge mental boost, helping his overall game. I have seen no one that compares to him in terms of off-season improvement. He used his summer wisely and is now standing out, at age 30, among a team with many younger players. This speaks volumes to his work ethic and dedication to the team and the sport.

No doubt he’s the playmaker. Take a look at how hard other teams go after him and try to check him relentlessly. I really like alot of the players. I think our whole defense core is worthy as well (Bullion, Weber, Suter, Franson, and Klein). They are getting it done defensively as a unit just as J.P. is getting it done offensively. In any case,
GO PREDS
Beat the Blue Jackets!

At the start of a season of surprising performances (Smithson, Bouillon and Hornqvist among them), steady but inventive J.P. Dumont stands tall. Joel Ward embodies Predator grit but Dumont gets the job done.

Bouillon. without him, our D as a whole is nowhere near what it is now. JP’s play-making is certainly missed when he’s out, but i shutter to think how terrible our blueline would be if Klein and Hammer had to still be paired up.

For being one of the most consistent and motivated players throughout the first quarter.

Besides, any counter to this argument will obviously be racist and immediately aired out on MSNBC. grin

I’ll have one nomination for players expected to do well (Pekka) and another for one that has quietly calmed the defensive shuttle between Nashville and Milwaukee (Cody Franson). He has steadily laid claim to the 6th D spot to the point that Sulzer is going to receive a charity start from Trotz. Franson’s offense was not questioned in the preseason but his defense was and now he is logging important minutes and not looking out of place in tough situations. I think he is probably here to stay.