Three 2013 Non-Playoff Teams That Should (or Could) Make It In 2014

2.  Nashville Predators

April 25, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Nashville Predators center Craig Smith (15) is congratulated by teammates after scoring in the first period against the Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

An off-season from Pekka Rinne (whether he was hurt or not) really hurt the Predators chances.  So did the loss or Ryan Suter to free agency.  However, a resurgence of Rinne and the addition of Seth Jones and Filip Forsberg helps the Preds in all 3 areas of the ice and although they missed the playoffs by 14 points, they should return to the dance again.  The new divisional alignment also helps, since only 3 of the 7 teams in the new-look Central division made the playoffs last season.  They might not have enough offensive presence yet to be a real threat in the postseason, but they are a good bet to make it there.