Brunette explains Ufko assignment to Milwaukee after Predators opener
Nashville wants Ryan Ufko playing major minutes in the AHL after he struggled in Thursday’s loss to Minnesota.
What's newNashville outlined its practice defence pairs ahead of Saturday's 7 p.m. CT game against Dallas.
The Nashville Predators assigned defenceman Ryan Ufko to the Milwaukee Admirals on Friday, Oct. 2. General manager Chris MacFarland announced the move after Ufko played alongside captain Roman Josi in Thursday's 3-1 loss to Minnesota.
Head coach Andrew Brunette later explained that Nashville wanted Ufko to play rather than sit out while working to regain his confidence.
“I thought his play tapered a little bit,” Brunette said. He said Ufko struggled in the opener and would benefit from a larger role in Milwaukee, while remaining part of Nashville's plans.
Nashville hosts Dallas at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. CT. Dallas enters after being shut out by St. Louis on Friday. The Predators listed Ilya Lyubushkin, Jack Ahcan and William Trudeau as candidates to make their Nashville debuts in place of Ufko. The lineup has not been confirmed.
In Friday’s practice, Nic Hague skated alongside Josi, Lyubushkin was paired with Ahcan, and Trudeau with Adam Wilsby. Brady Skjei and Nick Perbix remained together. Brunette wants the team to keep its opening-night effort while improving how it manages the puck.
Steven Stamkos said penalties disrupted Nashville's rhythm against Minnesota and that turnovers gave the Wild opportunities on the rush. He wanted the same early energy against Dallas, combined with better discipline.
