Nashville Predators: Why Ryan Ellis Is the Future of the Franchise

With the immense potential he's shown and the uncertain future of Nashville's top defensive players, Ryan Ellis will have a big stamp on this franchise for a number of years to come.

Ellis has been hyped for some time after he was the 11th overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, and has spent the last few years playing for OHL's Windsor. With a weak back line to their defense, the Predators called up Ellis early in the 2012 campaign.

He dealt with the transition pretty well and has begun to gel as a contributing player on both ends of the ice. His three goals and eight assists, totaling to 11 points, has been a boost offensively to Nashville.

It's unclear what path Ryan Suter will take in free agency, but it's certain that he will get some big-time offers if he tests the waters.

Suter's departure would leave a gaping hole in this Predators team that could eventually be replaced by Ellis. 

Ellis is a bit less fundamental than Suter, but is more of a weapon from the point on the power play. Suter likes to act as a fourth forward in the offensive zone, but Ellis would add another deep point presence alongside Weber.

With Weber looking to become a restricted free agent, his time in Nashville could be numbered. While Ellis couldn't replace the pound-for-pound strength and size that Weber brings to the ice, he could use his slap shot in replacement somewhat effectively.

Ellis is the captain of a three-headed monster of young Preds' defensive prospects, alongside Roman Josi and Jonathon Blum.

While all three are good trade bait, the Preds don't seem likely to make any big moves in the near future with their latest additions. All efforts will be going toward re-signing Suter and Weber while keeping Russian star Alexander Radulov in Nashville for next season.

Suter and Weber would undoubtedly be Nashville's top defensive line for many years if they were to stay in the "Music City" with long term deals, but that possibility doesn't seem like a done deal. If either one was to depart, Ellis will be the first one to step in in all likelihood.