The Nashville Predators have convinced Rem Pitlick to forego his final season at the University of Minnesota, and today signed him to a two-year entry-level contract.
Pitlick, 21, comes from a successful hockey family and was nominated for the Hobey Baker award this season after putting up 45 points in 38 games. Originally selected in the third round, he was an exceptional player in the USHL but some scouts had concerns around his size. Players measuring in under six feet as Pitlick does (5’9″) has never been a problem for the Predators though, as Viktor Arvidsson and Ryan Ellis can attest to.
There’s a real chance that Pitlick can step right into a professional atmosphere and succeed, bringing some more offense to the Predators organization. It’s not clear yet if he’ll play games for the Milwaukee Admirals down the stretch, but should be a candidate for a big role with the AHL team next season—that is if he doesn’t surprise and nab a spot on Nashville’s roster.