Nashville Predators bring back Reid Schaefer to main roster ahead of clash against Minnesota Wild after strong AHL run

Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz announced the recall of forward Reid Schaefer from the Milwaukee Admirals on Wednesday, bringing the young power forward back to the NHL after a productive stretch in the AHL.

Schaefer posted 18 points on six goals and 12 assists in 21 games with Milwaukee this season, proving he had more to offer after being sent down earlier in the campaign. The Predators sit just four points shy of that final wildcard spot and they hope to keep their momentum as they face Minnesota.

Nashville believes Reid Schaefer can help Predators secure their victory

The 22-year-old Schaefer had shown flashes during his initial NHL stint with four goals and two assists in 25 games as a rookie, but the Predators wanted him to get top minutes and consistent ice time in the AHL. The Edmonton native made his NHL debut on November 28 against Chicago and wasted little time making an impression.

Schaefer scored his first career goal and picked up his first major fight on December 2 against the Flames, showcasing the blend of skill and toughness that made him a first-round pick. His path to Nashville traces back to a deal that continues to look like a win for the Predators.

Originally selected 32nd overall by Edmonton in the 2022 draft, he was acquired by Nashville on February 28, 2023, along with a first-round pick that became defenseman Tanner Molendyk. Now in his third full professional season, Schaefer owns 53 points in 103 career AHL games with Milwaukee.

He won a WHL championship with the Seattle Thunderbirds in 2023 and earned gold with Canada at the World Junior Championship that same year, bringing a winning pedigree to a Predators organization that needs it. The recall comes at a critical juncture for Nashville.

The Predators sit on the Western Conference wildcard bubble and have struggled to build any sustained momentum, failing to string together more than three consecutive wins at any point this season.

With the Olympic break starting today and the trade deadline looming on March 6, Nashville has two games left to make a statement before the pause. Trotz has made it clear everything remains on the table depending on where the team stands, making every roster decision feel significant.

Schaefer's energy and physicality could provide the spark Nashville needs to stay in the fight during a stretch that will define the rest of their season.





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