The Nashville Predators have signed forward Philip Tomasino to a one-year, $825,000 contract, as announced by General Manager Barry Trotz. Tomasino, a 23-year-old forward, spent the 2023-24 season playing both in the NHL for the Predators and in the AHL with the Milwaukee Admirals. In 41 games with the Predators, Tomasino contributed 20 points, including seven goals and 13 assists. He also managed 62 shots on goal and four power-play assists, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively even in limited ice time. Despite a partial season in the NHL, Tomasino made a strong impact when he returned to the AHL, scoring 18 points (11 goals and 7 assists) in 22 games for the Admirals.
His scoring rate of 0.81 points per game in the AHL highlighted his potential as a versatile offensive player. During Milwaukee’s playoff run to the Western Conference Final, Tomasino further proved his value by scoring five goals, tying for third-most on the team, while also adding an assist and posting a +2 rating over 15 postseason games.
Tomasino’s journey with the Predators began when he was drafted in the first round, 24th overall, in the 2019 NHL Draft. Since his NHL debut in the 2021-22 season, Tomasino has amassed 70 points, including 23 goals and 47 assists, in 148 NHL games. He has shown flashes of his offensive talent through his 227 shots on goal and contributed to the team’s special teams. Additionally, Tomasino has registered 41 penalty minutes in his NHL career. His time in the AHL has also been productive, where in 89 regular season games, he has recorded 82 points (36 goals and 46 assists), further demonstrating his ability to score at a high level. In the Calder Cup Playoffs, he has played in 31 games, collecting 15 points (7 goals and 8 assists), indicating his potential to deliver in high-stakes situations.
Before turning professional, Tomasino built an impressive resume in junior hockey. Playing in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Niagara IceDogs and Oshawa Generals, Tomasino recorded 196 points (79 goals and 117 assists) over 190 games, underscoring his offensive skills. In his final OHL season, he ranked among the league leaders in several key categories, finishing fourth in points (100), ninth in goals (40), and tying for fifth in assists (60). His ability to consistently perform at a high level in the OHL earned him recognition as one of the league’s top prospects.
Internationally, Tomasino has represented Canada on multiple occasions. At the 2021 World Junior Championship, he contributed six points (4 goals and 2 assists) in seven games, helping Canada win a silver medal. He also competed for Canada at the 2019 U-18 World Championship, where he recorded five points (1 goal and 4 assists) in six games. His international experience showcases his ability to compete at a high level against top talent from around the world.
Overall, Tomasino’s combination of NHL experience, AHL success, and junior hockey dominance make him an important part of the Predators’ future. With his new contract, the Predators will look for Tomasino to take another step forward in his development and become a consistent contributor for the team in the 2024-25 season.
