The Nashville Predators recalled defensive prospect Spencer Stastney on March 12 from the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals. Stastney arrived in Nashville in time for the back half of a four-game road trip, joining the Predators for this first time since his reassignment to the AHL back in December.
Stastney was last recalled by Nashville on Nov. 14, when forward Tommy Novak landed on injured reserve with a hand injury. The 24-year-old defenseman made his season debut with Nashville on Nov. 18 against the Chicago Blackhawks and went on to appear in eight more games, posting a +6 rating and scoring his first career NHL goal on Nov. 24 against the St. Louis Blues.
"He played really well for us when he was here, and i'm just looking for more of what he brought then," Predators head coach Andrew Brunette said. "He's an elite skater a really good defender, and I'm looking forward to seeing him."
Stastney has a career-high 20 points (five goals, 15 assists) in 44 games with the Central Division-leading Admirals this season. His +27 rating leads Milwaukee defensemen and is tied for the third-highest mark in the AHL.
"We've been pretty good in Milwaukee," Stastney said. "It's just the same old for me - being quick, being smart, being simple, but trying to be a little more offensive and keep on being reliable in the back end."
Stastney was was also a key contributor in Milwaukee's historic 19-game win streak, the longest such streak in franchise history and the second-longest in AHL history. Reflecting on his team's accomplishment, Stastney said his 10 points (two goals, eight assists) during that span went a long way in boosting his confidence.
“It definitely helps,” Stastney said. “I think playing during that long streak and just having success and being in a good mood and knowing that we're capable of that, and that I'm capable of being part of that team was pretty special.”
Stastney now has an opportunity to contribute to yet another historic run, as the Predators look to stretch their point streak to 13 games - one shy from matching the second-longest streak in franchise history - and solidify their place in the playoff standings.
"I know this team wants to win and they got some key pieces here at the deadline," Stastney said. "Whatever they need from me and however I can help, I'm happy to do that. I'm just excited to be here and be around these guys and hopefully be a part of something special."
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