Two of Nashville's newest draftees signed their entry level contracts today.
Two of Nashville's newest draftees signed their entry level contracts today.
The Nashville Predators have announced that Tanner Molendyk and Kalan Lind have each sign a three year entry level contract with the organization.
Molendyk was Nashville's 24th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft last week. The defenseman from McBride, BC impressed the Predators with his skating and competitive edge.
Assistant GM and Director of Scouting Jeff Kealty talked about what the organization liked about Molendyk's game.
"I really felt like he's one of the best skaters in the draft," Kealty said as the draft wrapped up last Thursday. "He's not an overly big guy, but he's highly competitive. He can play big minutes, contributes offensively, moves pucks, and can really defend because of the way he skates."
The 18 year old showed off those skills this week at development camp and in the Future Stars game today. His skating stood out in camp, and his defensive performance in the Stars game highlight what Nashville saw in Molendyk as he played for the Saskatoon Blades last season. Molendyk set WHL career highs in goals, assists and points last season.
Second round draft pick Kalan Lind also inked his ELC this morning. The 18 year old winger played 43 games last season in the WHL with the Red Deer Rebels in which he scored 16 goals and 44 points. His offensive upside is matched by his physicality and fearlessness on the ice. No one to shy away from contact, Lind balances some old school hockey style with an intriguing offensive skill set.
"When you get that call yesterday it's kind of what you worked for and dreamed of as a little kid," Lind said of signing with the Predators. "Now honestly, the work starts now."
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