The Nashville Predators fell mainly under the radar on the first day of free agency, but they made one move that will pay dividends. Barret Jackman agreed to join the Preds for two years at $2 million per season. He will immediately join an amazing defensive core that includes Shea Weber, Roman Josi and Seth Jones. He inserts himself into a winning environment immediately, one he was used to with the St. Louis Blues for so many years.

The Predators were picked to miss the playoffs by most of the analysts in the beginning of the season, but ended up towards the top of the league all season long. Now, Jackman can add himself into their formula.

Jackman may not be able to replace the departing Cody Franson by himself, but for his cap hit he will definitely be worth the money. His experience alone is worth the price. He still has plenty left to give a team with Stanley Cup aspirations.

The moves the Predators made, which include a trade with the Calgary Flames for Max Reinhart and signing Mike Ribeiro and Cody Hodgson, show they are looking to continue their rise among the best in the Central Division. They saw their division rival Chicago Blackhawks raise yet another Cup. They want to bring the Cup to the Music City. Making moves like bringing in Jackman will help them do that.

Jackman may look like he is on the third line on the defense right now, but he will work his way up. Pairing him with Jones could be a perfect combination. He could use his veteran savvy to make up for growing pains of Jones and then he can make up for Jackman’s lack of speed. They would play perfectly off of each other.

No matter what, the Predators should be happy with the moves they made. Jackman will fit right in with the culture on and off the ice. This was one of the best pickups of the day.