Mark Jankowski Adds Brains, Braun & a 'Really Underrated Shot' to Predators' Bottom-Six

As the Nashville Predators close in on a Stanley Cup Playoff berth, 29-year-old NHL journeyman Mark Jankowski has quietly become a reliable – albeit unlikely – source of secondary scoring.

Since being recalled from the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals on Feb. 12 , Jankowski has potted six goals, which is tied with his Novak for the sixth-most on the team during that span.

"He's got a great release – a really underrated shot, actually," said Luke Evangelista, who typically plays opposite Jankowski on the Predators' third line. "He's able to get those shots up quick and heavy."

According to Moneypuck.com , the line of Jankowski, Evangelista and Tommy Novak ranks 5th in the NHL in expected goal percentage (67.9%) and in expected goals for per 60 minutes (4.31) among lines that have played at least 100 minutes together.

"It feels like a really good blend right now," Evangelista said. "In terms of our brains, we're all thinking the same way out there. [Jankowski] brings the size on the line, and then [Novak] and I are able to use our playmaking to find him in those areas."

The trio has played together in 23 of Jankowski's 28 games this season for a total of 179.7 minutes. While Evangelista and Novak are the primary drivers on offense, Jankowski has thrived in his role as a net-front scoring threat.

"He has intelligence, size and skill," Evangelista said. "You can't teach size, and the way he wins battles and protects the puck, especially down low in the offensive zone, is super noticeable... It just feels like he's always finding those soft spots on the ice for me and [Tommy Novak] to use our playmaking and kind of hit him."

Related: Mark Jankowski is the Predators' Secret Weapon

While his offense has been more noticeable this season, Jankowski is known primarily as a two-way forward. He wins puck battles, he's relentless along the boards and he neutralizes opposing offenses.

"He's been a pleasure play with," Evangelista said. "Honestly, if you've watched the last couple years, it's not a surprise. He was doing this while in the AHL, too. I think he's a full time NHL player."

With 14 points so far this season, Jankowski is averaging 0.5 points per game, putting him on pace to set a new career high in that category at the NHL level. He has been a model of consistency for Nashville, putting together one of his best offensive seasons without sacrificing his ability on defense and finishing chances.

"It's awesome what he's been able to do," Evangelista said. "He didn't make [Nashville's NHL roster] out of camp, but he came up and he's had such a huge impact down the stretch here. So, I'm really happy for him."