Pavel Novak

Novak was one of a number of forwards to earn surprisingly consistent time with the Predators in 2022-23. He was among the most impressive, racking up 17 goals, 26 assists, 93 shots on goal and a plus-5 rating through 51 games, all of which came from December onward. The 26-year-old could be considered somewhat of a late bloomer, but it appears his time is here. Novak is likely to hold down a middle-six role with power-play time in 2023-24, and while his 18.3 shooting percentage will dip, playing a full season should allow him to push for 50 points again if his playmaking remains steady.