Molendyk looking to find next level for Predators

Tanner Molendyk has a few goals in mind for the upcoming season, but improving his offensive production is near the top of the list.

The 18-year-old defenseman, who was selected by the Nashville Predators in the first round (No. 24) of the 2023 NHL Draft, had 37 points (nine goals, 28 assists) in 67 regular-season games for Saskatoon of the Western Hockey League last season.

Molendyk also had eight points (three goals, five assists) in 18 playoff games, but as he prepares for his fourth season of junior hockey, he believes he can make even more of an impact in that end of the ice.

"I think just cracking that offensive seal, I think that's going to be a big thing, getting my shot harder and all that kind of stuff," Molendyk said. "I also think it's just looking for guys before I even get in the zone. That's a big thing. I think I have the speed and skill to do what it takes, so it's just finding that next level."

Moldendyk's speed was one of the main reasons he became the first defenseman chosen by Nashville in the first round since 2016 (Dante Fabbro, No. 17).

"Just the way he skates, he's like the new-age defenseman," said Scott Nichol, who is the Predators' assistant general manager and director of player development.

"His edges are fantastic. He's got tons of confidence in his feet. The way he competes … he's not an overly big guy (6-foot-1, 182 pounds), but he competes real hard."

Molendyk added that his speed helps him just as much defensively as it does offensively.

"Yeah, I think just closing gaps, I think I do a great job of that," Molendyk said. "I think once you close the gap, it just makes your life that much easier taking pucks away. Also, being able to change speeds in the matter of a second, I think that's one thing I do very good, and it just keeps opponents on their toes."

On top of continuing his development offensively, Molendyk is also excited to step into a bigger role with Saskatoon this season following the departures of defensemen Aidan De La Gorgendiere and Blake Gustafson.

"I was probably like the second or third guy last year," Molendyk said. "So, I think we lose those guys now, and they've sort of told me I'm taking that No. 1 spot. So, I think it's going to be huge for me."

The Predators are looking forward to seeing how he develops in that larger role too.

"He's an exceptional skater and we love his compete level," said Glen Sanders, the Predators' North American amateur scout. "He can really use his feet to move in all three zones and never seems to panic under pressure. He plays bigger than he is, and we see nothing but upside to him."