#35 Pekka Rinne (Retired Jersey)

Lore & Background

Pekka Rinne's journey to becoming a Predators legend began in 2005 when he debuted as a backup, but his breakout came in 2008–09 when he seized the starting role and never looked back. Over 15 seasons, all with Nashville, Rinne became the face of the franchise, known for his athleticism, calm demeanor, and ability to steal games. He led the Predators to their first Stanley Cup Final in 2017, a run that galvanized the city and cemented his status as a folk hero. His rivalry with Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford added intensity to the Central Division battles, while his partnership with defenseman Shea Weber formed the backbone of the team's identity. Beyond the ice, Rinne's quiet presence in local hospitals and youth hockey rinks made him a pillar of the community, and his post-game 'Rinne Wave' to the crowd became a cherished ritual in Smashville.

In Their Own Story

The arena lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd as the banner rose. On the ice, Pekka Rinne stood in his full gear one last time, tears streaming down his face. He remembered the empty seats of the early years, the roar of the first playoff win, and the weight of a city that believed in him. As the #35 settled into place, the fans chanted his name—a sound that had been his anthem for 15 seasons. He raised his stick in thanks, knowing that in Smashville, he was home. In that moment, the banner wasn't just cloth and thread; it was a frozen snapshot of every glove save, every overtime stand, and every time he'd looked up at the crowd and felt their faith lift him higher.

Reader's Guide

The Pekka Rinne era (2008–2021) marked the Predators' transformation from a scrappy expansion team to a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. Defined by Rinne's elite goaltending, the team adopted a defensive-first identity that frustrated opponents and thrilled fans. This period saw the rise of the 'Smashville' culture, with Rinne as its unassuming hero. His 2017–18 Vezina Trophy season highlighted his peak, but his true impact was in the intangibles: leadership, resilience, and a connection to the community that made him a Nashville icon. The retirement of his jersey in 2022 was not just a celebration of a player, but of an era that proved the Predators belonged among the NHL's elite. For fans, #35 represents the heart of the franchise—a reminder that greatness can come from loyalty and hard work.

Did You Know?

• Pekka Rinne is the only goaltender in Predators history to win the Vezina Trophy (2018).
• He holds the franchise record for most wins, shutouts, and games played by a goaltender.
• Rinne was selected by the Predators in the eighth round (258th overall) of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.
• His jersey retirement ceremony in February 2022 included a surprise appearance by former teammate Shea Weber.