Nashville Predators: What does Philip Tomasino bring to the Predators?
The Nashville Predators selected Philip Tomasino in the first round of the NHL Draft with the 24th pick, but what does Tomasino bring to the Predators?
The 17-year-old forward had 34 goals and 38 assists for the Niagra IceDogs in the OHL last season. He also had four assists for Team Canada in the Under-18 World Championship.
Philip Tomasino needs some work on defense but other than that he is a solid player for his age. He isn’t NHL ready quite yet though. He will most likely spend some time in Milwaukee to improve his game before making his debut in Nashville.
He is a very good skater and showed many times he can outskate his opponents and leave them in the dust with his speed on the ice.
If the Predators needed anything out of this draft, it would be a good skater. The Predators seemed to be slow on the ice this past postseason, which is why they were sent home early.
Tomasino could fill in that hole for the Predators if he can develop the rest of his game in Milwaukee.
Tomasino said he felt relieved to hear his name called and he’s excited to join the Predators.
"“A little nerve-wracking for sure,” Tomasino said on draft day. “To finally get my name called, it feels like it was a dream a little bit. I can’t really describe what it feels like. To have my name called by a special organization, it’s awesome. I’m really thankful for my family.”"
Tomasino is one of the most skilled forwards in this draft and the Predators might’ve gotten a steal with the 24th pick. He has a ton of potential and now has the opportunity to develop in an organization where he can thrive.
I love this pick and it seemed like just about everyone liked it too. With the Predators currently having some really good players in Milwaukee, their run might not be over just yet.
Dante Fabbro and Eeli Tolvanen could make their debut in 2019 which could set up the Predators to continue their run while bringing in younger, better players to fill in some holes.
Next. Bridgestone Arena led the rise of Nashville. dark
Tomasino joins Fabbro and Tolvanen in the Predator’s developmental camp starting next week. Both Fabbro and Tolvanen were drafted in 2017 and have spent the last two years in Milwaukee developing. 2019 will be their third year in the AHL if they aren’t called up but some may argue they will be ready by October.