Predators’ Zachary L’Heureux Suspended After Controversial Play Against Wild
The Nashville Predators are facing another challenge in an already turbulent season as forward Zachary L’Heureux has been handed a three-game suspension. The penalty comes after a controversial slew-foot incident during their matchup against the Minnesota Wild, which resulted in an injury to Wild captain Jared Spurgeon. The suspension further highlights the Predators’ struggles this season, as they continue to battle inconsistency and now, player discipline issues.
L’Heureux’s Troubled Record
This suspension marks L’Heureux’s first in the NHL, but his history of disciplinary issues in lower leagues paints a troubling picture. Over his career in the QMJHL and AHL, L’Heureux has missed a staggering 39 games due to 11 suspensions. With this recent decision, his total count now stands at 42 games over 12 suspensions.
As a result of the suspension, the Predators will be without L’Heureux for upcoming games against the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and Winnipeg Jets. He will be eligible to return to the lineup on January 11, when the team faces the Washington Capitals at Bridgestone Arena.
A Season of Disappointment
The Predators entered the 2024–25 season with high expectations after making significant offseason moves. The team acquired notable players, including:
- Steven Stamkos, former Tampa Bay Lightning captain and a prolific scorer with 40 goals last season.
- Jonathan Marchessault, the 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy winner, who had a career-high 42 goals with the Vegas Golden Knights.
- Brady Skjei, a top-tier defenseman signed to a seven-year deal.
- A long-term contract extension for standout goaltender Juuse Saros.
These additions were expected to solidify the Predators as Stanley Cup contenders, but the season has unfolded quite differently. Nashville currently holds a dismal 11-20-7 record, placing them second-to-last in the Western Conference, just above the struggling Chicago Blackhawks.
On-Ice Struggles
Despite their star-studded lineup, the Predators have failed to deliver consistent performances. Defensive lapses, scoring droughts, and now disciplinary issues have compounded their troubles. L’Heureux’s suspension only adds to the team’s woes, removing a key player during a critical stretch of games.
Adding to the frustration is the lack of payoff from their marquee signings. While Stamkos and Marchessault have shown flashes of brilliance, the team’s overall chemistry has yet to click. Meanwhile, Saros has been left to carry much of the burden in goal, often facing an overwhelming number of shots due to defensive breakdowns.
Moving Forward
The Predators must find a way to regroup and refocus if they hope to salvage their season. With games against tough opponents like the Canucks, Flames, and Jets on the horizon, the team has little margin for error.
Fans and analysts alike are left wondering if the Predators can overcome these challenges and rise to the expectations set at the beginning of the season. For now, the suspension of L’Heureux is just one more hurdle in what has been a deeply disappointing campaign.
Future Outlook
The suspension of L’Heureux adds to the Predators’ woes in a season already rife with challenges. As the team navigates these setbacks, fans and analysts alike are left questioning if this star-studded roster can find a way to salvage the remainder of their campaign.
The Predators’ next game against the Canucks will be a key test, and all eyes are on how they’ll adapt without L’Heureux.
