Nashville Predators Release 2026 Development Camp Roster

June 29, 2026 - 01:18

Top prospects and hungry invitees descend on Smashville this week for high-stakes practices, culminating in the Future Stars Game as the next generation of talent fights for notice. The Predators released their full 2026 development camp roster on Tuesday, featuring a mix of recent draft picks, unsigned free agents, and a handful of undrafted hopefuls looking to earn a professional contract.

Headlining the camp are first-round selections from the past two drafts, including forward Liam Andersson and defenseman Cole Whitfield. Both are expected to log heavy minutes during the scrimmages and drills, which run from Wednesday through Saturday at Centennial Sportsplex. Andersson, known for his high-end playmaking, will wear an "A" on his jersey as a camp leader. Whitfield, a physical two-way blueliner, will anchor the top defensive pair.

The camp also features several invitees who went unselected in the 2025 NHL Draft. Among them is 20-year-old center Marcus Thorne, who posted 68 points in the USHL last season. Thorne has drawn comparisons to current Predator forward Cole Smith for his relentless forechecking and ability to create chaos around the net. Coaches will watch him closely during the four-on-four sessions.

Goaltending duties will be split between 2024 third-round pick Viktor Lindqvist and undrafted free agent signee Ethan Park. Lindqvist, who spent last season in the SHL, is expected to compete for a spot in the AHL this fall. Park, a standout at the University of Maine, will look to prove his quick reflexes translate against higher-end shooters.

The camp will conclude with the Future Stars Game on Saturday afternoon, a fan-friendly event that gives prospects a final chance to leave a lasting impression before heading back to their junior or college teams.