As the excitement builds for the Stanley Cup finals, three former draft picks of the Nashville Predators are set to clash in a pursuit for hockey’s most coveted prize. The Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers will face off on Wednesday at 7 p.m. CT, marking the start of a series that will see at least one of these players—Mattias Ekholm, Viktor Arvidsson, or Seth Jones—add a championship to their resume.
Key Players from Nashville’s Past
Both Ekholm and Arvidsson, prominent forwards for the Oilers, were drafted in the later rounds, showcasing Nashville’s ability to identify and develop talent. Ekholm, a seasoned defenseman at 35, was drafted in the fourth round of the 2009 NHL Draft. Meanwhile, Arvidsson, a forward at 32, also saw his draft selection in the fourth round, but this time in 2014. Their journeys reflect a mix of determination and skill, and now both players are on the brink of capturing their first Stanley Cup.
For the Panthers, Seth Jones represents a different narrative. Drafted fourth overall in the 2013 NHL Draft, Jones is the son of former NBA player Popeye Jones. He had a brief yet impactful stint with Nashville, accumulating 63 points in 199 games before being traded to Columbus in January 2016. Jones’s skill on the ice has quickly made him an integral part of the Florida Panthers’ strategy.
The Nashville Connection
Each of these players has an interesting history with the Predators. All three were eventually traded, but their roots in Nashville still influence their careers today. Ekholm has had a decorated tenure in the NHL, spending 12 seasons with the Predators. He played a vital role in the 2017 season when Nashville surged to the finals, only to be defeated by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite the heartbreak, this experience invaluable experience has shaped his career, making him an essential asset for the Oilers.
During his time in Nashville, Ekholm recorded 268 points in 719 games—a remarkable statistic that highlights his significant contributions. His recent trade to Edmonton in February 2023, in exchange for several draft picks and prospects, marked a new chapter in his career. Just coming back from a lower-body injury, Ekholm played a crucial role in the Oilers’ clinching Game 5 victory over Dallas in the Western Conference finals, showcasing his resilience as he prepares for the Stanley Cup series.
Arvidsson’s story is similar, with seven years dedicated to Nashville, where he tallied 239 points. Known for his speed and offensive skills, he ranks seventh in career goals for the franchise. After being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in July 2021, Arvidsson has continued to shine. Despite being a healthy scratch at times during the playoffs, he has made his mark in the postseason with five points across 11 games.
The Battle Ahead
Seth Jones represents a new face for the matchup, but his previous time with Nashville makes this series even more riveting. After two and a half seasons with the Predators, Jones moved on to Columbus and eventually found his way to the Panthers before the trade deadline. His strategic and physical play has become a cornerstone for Florida as they aim to win back-to-back Stanley Cups, enhancing the stakes of this series.
In his time with Florida, Jones has shown impressive capability, contributing 16 points in a combined 38 games during the regular season and playoffs. His average of almost 25 minutes of ice time reflects his importance to the team and their ambitions.
A Historic Stanley Cup Showdown
The Stanley Cup finals are not merely a culmination of a season; they represent years of hard work, sacrifices, and the dreams of countless players, fans, and organizations. For these three former Predators draft picks, their journeys have brought them to a crucial point in their careers. Each player now stands on the threshold of greatness, and the outcome of this series will undoubtedly shape their legacies in the world of hockey.
As the Oilers and Panthers gear up to battle, fans can’t help but wonder: will it be Ekholm and Arvidsson lifting the Cup with Edmonton, or will Jones etch his name into Florida lore? Regardless of the outcome, one thing is for certain—this series is going to be a thrilling testament to the competitive spirit of the NHL, with these three players embodying the heart and soul of the game.
Conclusion
With the finals just around the corner, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable series. As hockey enthusiasts eagerly await the faceoff between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers, the focus will not only be on the teams but also on the incredible stories of their players. The journey of Mattias Ekholm, Viktor Arvidsson, and Seth Jones speaks volumes about the unpredictability of sports and the opportunities that lie ahead. For those involved, the Stanley Cup is more than just a trophy; it’s a dream realized, a legacy built, and the ultimate reward for a lifetime spent honing their craft.
