4 Ryan Ellis D

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Nearing personal best in scoring

Ellis has been a rock-solid presence on the Preds' blue line this season. Not only is he just two points away from the 40-point plateau, he has also set new career highs in average ice time (24:08), assists (32), blocked shots (142) and hits (65). He continues to line up opposite Roman Josi on the team's first defensive pairing, giving him significant fantasy value in all formats. Keep deploying him on a nightly basis and enjoy the rewards.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Two helpers in loss Friday

The minutes-munching defenseman made the most of his time in this contest, even if it wasn't enough to help the Predators. Ellis had gone through a mini-slump, going pointless over the three previous games. He's at 35 points in 67 games this season, just three points shy of his career high from 2016-17. He's also been credited with 127 blocked shots and 128 shots on goal, which boosts his value in formats using those categories.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Posts impressive night

Coming into the night, Ellis was sitting with 23 assists, which was tied for his career-best mark. He blew that out of the water with three helpers Tuesday, and there's still 20 games to go. While Ellis possesses a 5.2 shooting percentage, which is two ticks below his career norm, he still has a shot at a new career high in points because of all his assists. He has six goals and 32 points with a plus-20 rating in 62 contests.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: Picks up assist in win

With 29 points in 60 games, Ellis is 10 points away from setting a new career high for points in a season. The top-pairing defenseman led the penalty-killing attack Thursday as well, logging a team-high 3:47 of ice time with his team down a man.

Predators' Ryan Ellis: On pace for 40-point season

Ellis continues to excel on the Preds' top defensive pairing opposite Roman Josi. He is averaging 24:29 in ice time -- the most of his career -- and now has 26 points in 55 games, putting him on pace for a career-best 40 point season. The Preds are known for their deep and talented blue line, and Ellis is one of the reasons why. You want to own this guy.