The Nashville Predators have claimed 2018 first-round pick Liam Foudy off waivers from the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday. He has one year left on his deal at a cap hit of $762,500.
In 90 NHL games, Foudy has scored seven goals and 19 points with the Blue Jackets. He also has 35 points in 41 games with the Blue Jackets American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate Cleveland Monsters. Foudy made his NHL debut during the 2019-20 season before going full-time pro in 2020-21. He struggled with just four points in 24 NHL games but looked solid in the AHL. Foudy finally became a full-time NHLer last year, scoring seven goals and 14 points in 62 games. The Blue Jackets were hoping for more in 2023-24, but after a slow preseason and just 7:56 in ice time, Foudy found himself scratched and eventually a waiver causality.
The 23-year-old was initially selected 18th overall by the Blue Jackets, and prior to making the leap to the big leagues, he was a standout player for the Ontario Hockey League’s (OHL) London Knights. He complied back-to-back 68-point seasons with the prestigious club, and in 230 career games with London, he scored 97 goals and added 94 assists for 191 points. Foudy was also a big part of Canada’s gold medal at the 2020 World Juniors and played a depth role during the team’s 2021 World Championship effort.
Foudy will likely join the Predators in a depth role, and it’s unclear if the Preds see a roster spot for the speedy forward. If the Preds do not find a fit, Foudy will fulfill a role with the club’s AHL affiliate, Milwaukee Admirals.
The Predators are currently 2-3-0 as they face off against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night.
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