The Nashville Predators announced that they have signed centre Tommy Novak to a two-year entry level contract. The contract will begin at the start of the 2020-21 season. The Predators announced the deal Wednesday afternoon.
NEWS: General Manager David Poile announced today that the #Preds have signed forward Tommy Novak to a two-year, entry-level contract.https://t.co/KNZZ5itPA8
— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) March 25, 2020
Nashville Predators Ink Tommy Novak
The River Falls, Wis. native spent the season with the Predators AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals. In 60 games played, he scored 11 goals and added 31 assists for 42 points to go along with 18 minutes in penalties. Prior to joining the Predators organization, Novak spent four years at the University of Minnesota where he put up 88 points in 129 career games. Novak was first drafted by the Predators organization in the third round, 85th overall in the 2015 NHL draft.
The Predators organization believes Novak brings a lot to the table as a player. Novak is an extremely skilled energy guy who loves to set his teammates up around the net. He is not afraid to go to the hard areas of the game and will not shy away from physicality. Novak uses his skating ability to gain speed off the rush and can make defenders pay when they aren’t paying attention. Another thing some people may not know is that Novak plays a responsible 200-foot game. He makes quick smart decisions with the puck and always makes sure to backcheck when needed.
What This Means for the Future
When the Predators signed Novak to an AHL contract last season, they believed Novak could turn into something special. Their instincts were clearly proven as Novak finished seventh amongst rookie in points.
When asked about the development of Novak in the team’s official press release, Predators Director of Player Development Scott Nichol added: “We’ve wanted him in our system for a long time. We’re excited to have him with us for the next couple of seasons and are looking forward to seeing him grow and develop as a player.”
