Nashville Predators finalize roster for season opener

The Nashville Predators have finalized their 23-man roster ahead of their 2026–27 regular season opener against the Minnesota Wild. The roster includes 12 forwards, nine defensemen, and two goaltenders, featuring players such as Juuse Saros, Roman Josi, and Steven Stamkos.

Following a condensed training camp, the team placed defensemen Nick Perbix and Ilya Lyubushkin on waivers; however, both players cleared and returned to the NHL roster. Forward Vitali Pinchuk has been assigned to the Milwaukee Admirals, while Tyson Jost was placed on waivers.

The season begins on Thursday, October 1, at Bridgestone Arena. Both Nashville and Minnesota enter the matchup following 1-3 preseason records, with Predators management emphasizing the importance of a fast start to avoid the slow beginnings experienced in previous years.