NHL Draft and Team Strategy
On June 27, 2025, during the NHL Draft held in Los Angeles, Brady Martin was chosen as the fifth overall pick by the Nashville Predators, a decision celebrated by the team as they seek to rejuvenate their roster. The general manager, Barry Trotz, is keen on integrating younger talent, and both Martin and Matthew Wood have been impressively showcasing their skills during the training camp.
Preseason Performance
Their performance notably stood out during a recent match against the Tampa Bay Lightning, where the Predators faced a narrow 3-2 defeat in a shootout. This preseason game was pivotal for Martin, who, despite the loss, stole the limelight by scoring his first unofficial NHL goal.
This came after an earlier near-miss in the first period where he was denied by Tampa’s goaltender Brandon Halverson. However, early in the second period, Martin capitalized on an opportunity created by a turnover and, with an assist from Wood, placed a convincing shot over Halverson’s shoulder to put the Predators up 1-0 just 2 minutes and 13 seconds into the period.
His scoring streak continued when he struck again less than three minutes later on a power play, courtesy of a well-placed pass from Michael Bunting. This time, the young forward executed a one-timer that was simply too quick for Halverson to react to, extending Nashville’s lead to 2-0, and prompting excitement for a possible hat trick.
Player Highlights
Bunting praised Martin’s ability on the ice, highlighting his impressive skating and game awareness despite being one of the larger athletes on the team. “He moves great… he thinks the game really well and has that offensive touch,” Bunting noted, indicating that Martin is effectively stepping up in high-pressure scenarios.
Although the hat trick did not materialize during this game, Martin’s enthusiasm was palpable as he reflected on the electric atmosphere created by the fans. “It’s the biggest crowd I’ve ever played in front of. Pretty cool to score in front of a crowd like that,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Wood’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. The 15th overall pick from the 2023 draft added an assist to his name and played a crucial role in the team’s defensive efforts on the penalty kill, particularly as they navigated Martin’s successful shot. Having already logged six games with the Predators last season, although without any goals, Wood displayed a calm demeanor and offensive creativity that continues to earn him favor with the coaching staff.
Looking Ahead
With another team player, Luke Evangelista, currently negotiating a new contract and temporarily absent, both Martin and Wood are seizing their chance to press for roster spots.
“They’re really pushing here… that’s fun to be a part of,”
said coach Brunette, recognizing the vigor both young players bring to the team dynamics.
Regardless of the upcoming decisions about their placements for the opening night, their performances are sure to keep them in the conversation as they aim to make their mark in the NHL this season.
