The Basics
Craig Smith is a player that the Nashville Predators need as he provides that extra burst of energy, enthusiasm, and charisma. Smith tallied a total of 21 goals, 16 assists, and 37 points to end the 2015-2016 season, which landed him with back-to-back-to-back 20-goal seasons. At the age of 26, Smith continues to be one of the Predators most consistent players while only missing three regular season games in the past three seasons (!!!).
The element of speed that Smith adds to the Predators roster is a thing of beauty as he’s easily capable of blowing past defenders before they are able to make their next move. If you see the back of No. 15, it’s too late.
David Poile said it best when describing Craig Smith, “With Craig’s durability, work ethic and intensity, we see him continuing the build on his recent production and be a valuable contributor to our offensive attack.” Predators fans know exactly what they are getting when Smith steps on the ice.
Best Moment Of The Season
On March 24, 2016 the Predators found themselves down 2-0 against the Vancouver Canucks midway through the third period. James Neal would put in a goal at the 8:05 mark of the third. Shortly after Filip Forsberg added a goal of his own to tie the game up 2-2. This would take the game into overtime, which led to shootout between the two teams. Smith would close it out on a gorgeous game winner which left Ryan Miller dumbfounded while laying flat on the ice.
Worst Moment Of The Season
Everyone likes a “Not Top 10” moment. Fans love to see a player make themselves look like a little off kilter, and that’s exactly what Smith did in his worst moment of the season. There are moments in sports that make every fan shake their head while asking the question, “how in the world did that happen?” There are few people who can say they’ve seen a hockey player shoot the puck into a wide open net only to block their own shot with their own stick with 48 seconds left in overtime.Smith managed to witness that first hand as this play officially enters Smith into the Nashville Predators “Not Top 10” Hall of Fame.
Trending Up or Down?
Neither. Smith shows up every game and gives you a great performance. He is a valuable piece to the Predators franchise as David Poile showed that by signing him to a five-year, $21.25 million deal in 2015.
You know what Smith brings to the table night in and night out, which is why his trend is neither up or down.
Final Grade: B+
Some might say that Smith deserves an “A”, but based on his efforts this season a B+ is fitting. He was an extremely important piece for the Predators this past season and will be this upcoming season as well.
How would you grade Craig Smith’s performance this season?
| A | 64 |
| B | 138 |
| C | 15 |
| D | 1 |
| F | 0 |
| Corey Perry | 6 |