In July 2021, Predators GM David Poile shocked Smashville when he chose to protect unknown rookie Tanner Jeannot over veterans like Colton Sissons and Calle Järnkrok in the NHL’s expansion draft. Seattle, wisely, nabbed Järnkrok, and if I recall correctly, #FireDavidPoile briefly trended on Twitter. Poile either knew something no one else did (likely) or was the luckiest GM this side of the Mississippi, because the leftwinger quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his unrelentingly physical style of play. The fact that he didn’t win the Calder Memorial Trophy, let alone get a nomination, is a goddamn shame — not only did Jeannot net more goals than any other rookie in the league (24), but he also set a new franchise record for number of hits in a single season (318). A Best of Nashville Writer’s Choice award isn’t as pretty as the Calder, I know, but Smashville’s really glad you’re here, Jeannot. This BON’s for you.
Best Rookie
Tanner Jeannot
Tanner Jeannot
