Players in Milwaukee destined for starts with Nashville Predators next season

The Predators are starting to rely on their youth to carry their organization. Here are three players from the Admirals who are destined to receive more in the NHL next season.
Teammates including Cal O'Reilly (16) surround Milwaukee Admirals right wing Joakim Kemell (25) to celebrate his goal against the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the first period of Game 4 of their AHL playoff series Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Teammates including Cal O'Reilly (16) surround Milwaukee Admirals right wing Joakim Kemell (25) to celebrate his goal against the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the first period of Game 4 of their AHL playoff series Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. | Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
3 of 3
Matt Murray Milwaukee Admirals
Goaltender Matt Murray gloves the puck during Milwaukee Admirals practice Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. | Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Matt Murray

Matt Murray has yet to make an NHL start this season. The 27-year-old leads the AHL in wins with 26. He is also second in the league in save percentage—behind the other Matt Murray—with a 0.932 SV%.

The former Dallas Stars goaltender has four career games under his belt in the NHL. In his most recent game—a year and 3 months ago—he recorded a 23 save shutout, blanking the Minnesota Wild.

He is known for his conservative play style. He is rarely out of position when in the crease and is always covering slots under the crossbar. His calm composure in net means that doesn't waste energy with desperation saves. Murray remains consistent with his simple saves and little slides which seems to be working pretty well.

With Nashville always under pressure in the defensive zone, Murray is an ideal candidate for an NHL gig. He is known for his ability to always remain level-headed. He doesn't get too knocked around in the crease and maintains his composure when under pressure. The goaltender went undrafted and takes every opportunity in the crease seriously.

Nashville's back-up goalie Justus Annunen has a year left on his contract and could split the ice with Murray every now and then.