Nashville Predators Shake Up Roster by Reassigning Joakim Kemell
The Nashville Predators have made a significant roster change by assigning winger Joakim Kemell to the AHL Milwaukee Admirals. This decision offers the Predators an open roster spot ahead of their game against the Montreal Canadiens. However, the team has indicated that they do not plan to fill this vacancy in the immediate future.
Nashville’s Decision on Joakim Kemell
This move is seen as a step towards ensuring that Kemell, the 17th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, gains valuable playing time. This season marks his first time starting with Nashville’s opening night roster, but he has struggled with consistency, having been a healthy scratch in two of the first four games.
- Performance: Kemell played in two games without recording any points.
- Ice Time: He averaged 11:04 minutes of play per game.
- Statistics: In those games, he attempted five shots and recorded four hits.
While on the ice, the Predators managed a 45.5 Corsi For percentage (CF%), reflecting relatively better possession metrics compared to the team’s overall performance. However, with such limited ice time, his development may be stunted if he remains idle as a healthy scratch.
Kemell’s AHL Performance
In the AHL, Kemell has produced a commendable scoring line during his tenure. Since joining the Admirals late in the 2022-23 season, he has registered:
| Games Played | Goals | Assists | Total Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 146 | 41 | 53 | 94 |
The Nashville coaching staff expects more from him, particularly in terms of reaching the point-per-game benchmark in the minors. His performance on the power play will be closely monitored, especially as the Predators are struggling with a 1-for-17 start with the man advantage this season.
Other Young Players in the Lineup
Nashville has embraced a youth-focused strategy, although it has yet to fully reflect in their game-day lineup. Other young players, like the 2023 No. 5 overall pick, Brady Martin, have experienced similar challenges. Martin averaged under 12 minutes per game and also faced two healthy scratches.
- Ozzy Wiesblatt: Recently debuted after starting the season as a healthy scratch.
- Fedor Svechkov: As the Predators’ second-line center, he averages 13:02 minutes of ice time.
As Kemell seeks to command a recall later this season, he will need to showcase impressive performances in the AHL. The Predators’ commitment to player development will hinge on how well their younger talent responds under pressure and in critical situations.
