While much of the attention in Nashville has focused on recent acquisition P.K. Subban, fellow blue-liner Mattias Ekholm has also emerged as a defensive force.

Ekholm, 26, broke out last season, reaching career highs in goals (eight), assists (27), and points (35). His plus-14 rating also paced all Nashville blue-liners.

The Swede rounds out an an impressive Nashville defensive core, which also features Subban, Roman Josi, and Ryan Ellis.

"I think he is developing really well. He (almost) doubled his offensive output from last year," Predators assistant coach Phil Housley told NashvillePredators.com. "Each year, he makes strides in his game in being one of those top four guys.

"I think (Ekholm's) skating is second to none. He’s got quickness, he’s got speed, he can close as well and he has a great stick."

If anyone knows defense, Housley is a safe bet. The former NHLer scored 1,232 points from the blue line during a playing career that spanned nearly 1,500 games.

Moving forward, Ekholm's future with the team is secure, having agreed to a six-year extension with the Predators last October.

"He’s got to continue to be consistent. Sometimes he had some ups and downs this year, but I think that with experience and age that’s going to get better," Housley added. "I think the future looks great for him as well."