Predators' Young Prospects Face Uncertain Futures Ahead of NHL Season

By David Oglesby

NASHVILLE - As the Nashville Predators gear up for the 2025-26 NHL season, the futures of their top four prospects—Brady Martin, Matthew Wood, Joakim Kemell, and Tanner Molendyk—hang in the balance. With roster cuts earlier this week leaving only 28 players at training camp, the team must finalize its roster to 23 by Monday, a mere week before the season opener.

Brady Martin, the Predators' first-round pick (5th overall) in the 2025 NHL Draft, is impressively holding his ground among veterans like Filip Forsberg and Ryan O'Reilly. “It's pretty cool to still be here and be skating with those guys,” Martin remarked after practice. His presence in camp, alongside the other three prospects, showcases the team's commitment to youth development.

Predators Head Coach Andrew Brunette expressed confidence in the young talent. “They’ve all had really good camps. We're excited about our youth. It's fun to watch them grow,” he stated, highlighting the hunger and dedication of the younger players.

While Martin is thriving, Matthew Wood is nursing a lower-body injury and is considered week-to-week, adding another layer of uncertainty to his status. Meanwhile, Kemell and Molendyk are also awaiting their fates as they adjust to life in Nashville.

As the countdown to the season opener begins, O'Reilly reflected on the infusion of youth, saying, “The future is definitely bright.” The next few days will determine whether these prospects will make the final cut or return to junior leagues, but one thing is clear: the Predators' future is filled with potential.