Entering the league as an expansion team in 1998, the Nashville Predators suffered through the typical new franchise woes for their first few years in the NHL but have been a playoff threat in almost every season since. With one of the most stifling defenses in the league, the Preds are a team no one likes to face. Mission 2013-14: Back to the Playoffs Built around team captain Shea Weber, the Predators proved a commitment to winning a season ago when they matched a 14-year megabucks offer sheet on the star defenseman. Nashville fans responded by averaging the highest attendance in the league. While the financial commitment was massive, Weber is arguably the best defenseman in the NHL. Bolstering the defense even further, top draft pick Seth Jones is among the most exciting prospects the game has seen in years. In Pekka Rinne, the Nashville Predators have one of the NHL’s best goalies. Coming off off-season surgery, the Preds will need Rinne at his very best in 2013-14. With Viktor Stalberg, Eric Nystrom brought in to boost the offense, the Predators should be among the league’s most dangerous teams. Bridgestone Arena There’s always fun to be had in Music City and some of the best shows of the year happen on the ice at the Bridgestone Arena. While the whole building rocks on game night, pay particular attention to Section 303 – which one of the loudest fan groups in the league calls home. Purchase discounted Nashville Predators tickets on ScoreBig.com and see a team on the rise.