The Nashville Predators are making waves this offseason with a flurry of moves that have fans buzzing with excitement. The latest news from the team is the signing of defenseman Alex Carrier to a three-year contract worth a cool $11.25 million. At 27, Carrier has proven to be a reliable presence on the ice, and this new deal secures his place with the Preds through the 2025-26 season.
Carrier's journey with the Predators started back in 2015 when he was picked in the fourth round of the NHL Draft. Since making his debut on January 17, 2017, Carrier has steadily become a key player for Nashville. Last season, he notched four goals and 16 assists over 73 games, clocking an average of 18:48 minutes of ice time per game. This impressive stat made him the defenseman with the third-most ice time on the team.
Key Points of Carrier's New Contract:
- Contract Length: 3 years
- Total Value: $11.25 million
- Average Ice Time Last Season: 18:48 minutes per game
- Last Season Stats: 4 goals, 16 assists in 73 games
The timing of Carrier's contract announcement is just one piece of a larger puzzle for the Predators. General Manager Barry Trotz has been busy, making significant moves to bolster the team's lineup. On the same day as the Carrier news, Trotz announced the acquisition of three top-tier free agents: forward Steven Stamkos, forward Jonathan Marchessault, and defenseman Brady Skjei. These additions are expected to add depth and skill to the roster, making the Predators a team to watch in the upcoming season.
Adding to the excitement, goaltender Scott Wedgewood has been brought on board as a backup to Juuse Saros, who himself is locked in with the Preds for the long haul thanks to an eight-year contract extension. Wedgewood's presence will provide much-needed support in the net, ensuring the team has a solid goaltending duo.
Exciting Additions:
- Steven Stamkos: Forward, known for his scoring prowess and leadership
- Jonathan Marchessault: Forward, brings speed and offensive firepower
- Brady Skjei: Defenseman, adds strength and stability to the blue line
- Scott Wedgewood: Goaltender, reliable backup for Juuse Saros
With these moves, the Predators are clearly signaling their intent to compete at the highest level. However, there's a caveat – according to Cap Friendly, the team now has less than $1 million in cap space remaining as they head into the 2024-25 season. This tight cap situation will require careful management and possibly some tough decisions down the line.
Last season, Carrier found a strong defensive partner in Jeremy Lauzon. The duo's chemistry on the ice was evident, and with both players now signed through the 2025-26 season, fans can look forward to seeing them continue to develop as a formidable pairing. Lauzon's steady play complements Carrier's style, making them a reliable duo on the back end.
Defensive Pairing:
- Alex Carrier and Jeremy Lauzon: Solid defensive partnership, both signed through 2025-26
Carrier's development over the years has been impressive. From his early days as a draft pick to becoming a mainstay on the Predators' blue line, his growth is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His ability to contribute offensively, combined with his defensive skills, makes him a valuable asset to the team.
The Predators' strategy this offseason appears to be a mix of securing key players and adding fresh talent to strengthen the roster. With Carrier locked in and the addition of high-profile free agents, Nashville is positioning itself as a serious contender. Fans are eagerly anticipating how these new pieces will fit together and what the upcoming season will bring.
In summary, the Nashville Predators' signing of Alex Carrier to a three-year, $11.25 million contract is just one of several bold moves by the team this offseason. General Manager Barry Trotz has been active in the market, bringing in top talent and ensuring the team is well-prepared for the future. With a strong defensive core, exciting new additions, and careful cap management, the Predators are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating season.
Login