Predators Recall Joakim Kemell

Ahead of tomorrow’s game against the Blackhawks, the Predators announced they’d recalled right-winger Joakim Kemell from AHL Milwaukee. He’s the corresponding move to fill Vinnie Hinostroza’s roster spot after they lost him to the Wild on waivers yesterday. If Luke Evangelista can’t play due to his lower-body injury, then Kemell should be in line to make his NHL debut – potentially in a top-six spot with Filip Forsberg and Ryan O’Reilly.

Kemell, 20, was Nashville’s first-round pick in 2022 and is one of two players selected in the top 20 who have yet to make their NHL debut. He’s in his second full season with Milwaukee and third overall, co-leading active Admirals in scoring with 9-16–25 in 38 games. While his minus-nine rating is the worst on the team, he’s got a strong overall track record since arriving in North America and is coming off an AHL All-Star Classic appearance.

His six assists in his last five games helped convince the Preds to give him his first recall. They have 13 forwards on the active roster, but Evangelista and Mark Jankowski are doubtful for tomorrow’s contest and would leave Nashville in a bind if they can’t go.

The 5’11”, 183-lb Finn was named Liiga Rookie of the Year in his draft year, posting 15-8–23 in 39 games for JYP to lead the top-level league in rookie goal-scoring. He regressed a bit in 2022-23, logging 12-3–15 with a -16 rating in 43 games, but looked refreshed when Nashville recalled him from his loan at the end of the season and sent him to Milwaukee. He finished the year with 13 points in his first 14 AHL regular-season games and led the Calder Cup Playoffs in rookie goal-scoring with eight in another 14 games. He posted 16-25–41 in 67 games in his true rookie season with the Ads last year.

Kemell’s entry-level contract slid twice due to his lack of NHL appearances, so this is the first year his deal counts against their contract limit. He’ll be eligible for restricted free agency in 2027.