The Nashville Predators are actively shaping their roster for the upcoming 2024 NHL season and approaching the trade deadline, as defenseman Alexandre Carrier has re-signed with the team. According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, Carrier’s return solidifies their defensive depth and contributes to their competitiveness for the 2024-25 season. Specific contract details have not yet been disclosed.
Alexandre Carrier and the Nashville Predators are close to finalizing a contract extension. He would be have been UFA tomorrow
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) July 1, 2024
Carrier, a 27-year-old defenseman, has spent parts of six seasons with the Nashville Predators, showcasing versatility by contributing on both special teams units. He had a career-best offensive performance in the 2021-22 season, tallying 30 points in 77 games while seeing significant power play time. This season, his offensive output was slightly lower with four goals and 16 assists in 73 games, partly due to reduced power play opportunities but with increased responsibilities on the penalty kill. Throughout his career, Carrier has averaged about 19 minutes of ice time per game, reaching a peak of 20:59 in the 2021-22 season.
Carrier was approaching free agency this offseason, making his re-signing a crucial decision for Nashville. Previously earning $2.5 million, negotiations likely involved considerations for his prime years as a defenseman.
For Nashville, a team currently navigating a competitive landscape, retaining Carrier signifies their commitment to stability amidst ongoing roster adjustments. With a strong goaltending pipeline from Pekka Rinne to Juuse Saros, the Predators have maintained competitiveness but have faced challenges in securing consistent playoff berths. Keeping Carrier underscores their strategy to build for the future while maintaining core strengths. This move allows General Manager Barry Trotz to focus on further enhancing the roster, ensuring defensive depth that proves invaluable during playoff pushes.
