Predators Open Camp

The Nashville Predators opened camp today. A total of 51 players attended the Predators practice facilities today to begin their on ice preparations.

“Everyone was very amped up to be here today. There was a lot of energy in the building.” Sidney Crosby, said. “Management worked really hard in acquiring a lot of players via free agency, and it's great to see. It added a ton more competitive attitudes in camp today, and that can only help the team.” Crosby told media.

Eric Wolf, GM of the Predators, signed a total of 11 players in free agency. None of those were high profile signings, but Wolf said they were in tune with what the team needed.

“We filled holes in our roster. We added a lot of organizational depth. And were able to pluck a couple young free agents who have high upside. Players I feel have a shot at being serviceable players moving forward.” Wolf said.

The biggest of the signings was right handed defenseman Tom Gilbert.

“I was very thrilled to add Gilbert. There were 4 or 5 teams gunning for his services. When we entered the picture and gave him an offer, he accepted it immediately. We're very happy it took him no time to decide he wanted to be apart of our organization. He'll provide our blueline stability, and give us the depth we needed so our younger defenseman aren't rushed into full-time NHL minutes.”

Nashville also signed the following 10 players: Boyd Gordon, David Clarkson, Anton Volchenkov, Aaron Palushaj, Bobby Sanguinetti, Tim Brent, Andrew Bodnarchuk, Justin Hodgman, Danick Martel, and Jesper Pettersson. All who attended camp today.

The Predators have a total of 51 players now. The max allowed in the EHE.

With only 5 pre-season games on their schedule, the time for team assesment will be very constricting. “We don't have a whole lot of time to give long evaluations. My goal is to give every player at least one game in the pre-season. However, most of our assetment will come during team practices. Due to the nature of the short pre-season, we'll be sending more and more players down to the minors after each game. It'll be a very busy week.” Wolf concluded to media.

The Nashville Predators open the pre-season against the Florida Panthers. Then have back to back home and home games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and then the Tampa Bay Lightning.