Nashville Predators and Florida Panthers Kick Off Preseason Doubleheader

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Nashville Predators and Florida Panthers opened their preseason today with a doubleheader at Bridgestone Arena. The games, scheduled for 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. CT, allow the Predators’ coaching staff to evaluate 40 players in competitive action as training camp progresses.

Predators Head Coach Andrew Brunette emphasized the importance of this evaluation period, stating, “There’s lots of competition in camp. A lot of them showed really well today [in scrimmages], and today was an opportunity to see it all over again.” The new line featuring Erik Haula between Jonathan Marchessault and Michael Bunting has received positive feedback, showcasing their chemistry during the early stages of camp.

The Predators’ captain, Roman Josi, is back at full health following his diagnosis with POTS and is paired with offseason acquisition Nic Hague. Other notable pairings include Brady Skjei with Nick Perbix and Adam Wilsby with Justin Barron. “I thought they enjoyed the pace of all the scrimmages, so that was good to see,” Brunette added.

This year marks the first time in several seasons that the doubleheader occurs under new NHL preseason guidelines, which will limit teams to just two exhibition games next year instead of this year’s typical seven. The event has been a long-held tradition for both teams since 2011, except for the lockout in 2012 and the absence of exhibition games in 2021.

Florida’s head coach Paul Maurice commented on the strategy for the game, noting the majority of his veterans are sitting out this doubleheader to allow newer players and prospects a chance to shine. “You get to see some players against bigger, stronger, faster men,” Maurice said. “This is a great opportunity for young players.”

With both doubleheader games streaming live on NashvillePredators.com and the audio broadcast available on ESPN 102.5 The Game, fans will be able to support their teams from the comfort of their homes.