Connor Brown, Washington Capitals
Age: 29 Position: LW 2022-23 AAV: $3.6M
Although the Nashville Predators shouldn’t be heavy buyers in free agency, as a general manager you’re always looking to see what’s out there and if anything can make your team better. Connor Brown sticks out as a low-risk, but potentially high-reward free agent.
Brown came via trade to the Washington Capitals but missed most of 2022-23 with an injury and never got to show what he could provide.
Before the trade to the Capitals, Brown posted a 39-point season for the Ottawa Senators that included 37 blocks. His career high is 43 points set in 2019-20 and has been a consistent depth player in the NHL going back to his rookie year in 2016-17.
Brown is a two-way player that can fit the Predators system rather effortlessly and find himself in a third line role right out of training camp.
Daily Faceoff has Brown ranked as their No.20 free agent and project his next contract to come in around four years for $3.3 million. Four years might be longer than Trotz would be willing to commit to, but that AAV is low risk for what you could be getting.
Brown makes a lot of sense if the Nashville Predators want to add at least one moderate free agent this summer. Depth and a two-way player for your bottom six is something the Predators could use an upgrade in.