2013-14 Season Preview – Vezina Trophy Predictions

4.   Pekka Rinne

Sep 22, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne (35) stops a shot against the New York Islanders at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports

After 2 stellar seasons, 2013 was an off year for the big Finn, who was hampered by nagging injuries.  He had a streaky season, with stretches of greatness followed by periods of ineptitude, which resulted in the Predators missing the playoffs for the first time in 4 seasons.

If healthy, Rinne would have to be considered a top contender for the hardware, and has an improving defense in front of him that has recalibrated since the departure of Ryan Suter.