Nashville Predators Build Depth for 2026-27 Push

Brady Martin recorded three NHL regular-season appearances for the Predators in 2025-26 before returning to the OHL.

Balanced Forward Pipeline Fuels Incremental Gains

Martin tallied points in junior after his brief NHL stint and enters 2026-27 with a clear path to more ice time if his skating improves. The 2025 first-rounder contrasts with 2026 first-rounder Wyatt Cullen who posted 30 points in 35 USHL games driving play at the National Team Development Program. Cullen’s speed creates mismatches that complement Martin’s physical style.

Teddy Stiga posted lower sophomore totals at Boston College yet remained the energetic complementary center who elevates linemates. His 2025-26 step back occurred on a weaker Eagles team while Yegor Surin posted 37 points in 57 KHL games using physicality on the forecheck. Surin arrives as a soon-to-be 20-year-old ready for North American pro hockey.

Ryker Lee generated 30 points in 35 freshman games at Michigan State showcasing high-skill hands that translate beyond flash. Joakim Kemell remains an AHL shooter seeking an extended NHL look after limited prior appearances. Joey Willis completed a solid first pro season and must tighten defensive consistency to avoid bottom-six limitations.

Defensive and Goaltending Additions Strengthen Depth

Tanner Molendyk completed a composed rookie AHL campaign built on skating and puck movement. Cameron Reid captains the Memorial Cup champion Kitchener Rangers and heads to Michigan for further development. Tommy Bleyl rose quickly in the QMJHL with elite skating that aids both transition and defensive positioning.

Jack Ivankovic started for Michigan in their Big Ten title run and is slated for Canada at the 2027 World Juniors. Dmitri Borichev the 2026 third-round pick offers elite lateral movement in net despite modest size. The additions contrast prior gaps on the right side of the blue line.

2026 Draft Extends Organizational Options

Nashville selected seven players including Cullen at 10th overall and Bleyl at 31st. The class added Dmitri Borichev at 70th and four later picks focused on tools and project upside. This volume offsets the lack of a single elite talent and creates competition across positions.

The Predators now list multiple options at every spot with at least two strong prospects per position behind the top names. Depth charts show six left wingers and seven centers capable of AHL or NHL transition within two seasons. No positional hole exists yet the absence of a projected superstar remains the clearest limitation.