Nashville Predators forward Craig Smith is armed with a long-term contract and a desire to build off one of the best seasons in franchise history.
Smith followed up career-highs of 24 goals and 52 points two seasons ago with 23 goals and 44 points in 2014-15 and was rewarded Monday with a five-year, $21.25 million contract shortly after a salary arbitration hearing.
"The Preds wanting to do a five-year [contract] is a testament to their confidence in my ability," Smith told the Predators website Tuesday. "Once you have that as a player, and you know you're wanted, it feels good to hear they think you can produce, but it's also a lot of responsibility.