Philip Tomasino returns to the Predators
Philip Tomasino is headed back to Nashville. The Predators recalled the forward this morning. The Predators lost Filip Forsberg to an injury early in Saturday's game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Forsberg did not return to the game. Forsberg has since been listed day-to-day, which is a surprisingly promising outlook considering how things looked after the […]
Philip Tomasino is headed back to Nashville. The Predators recalled the forward this morning. The Predators lost Filip Forsberg to an injury early in Saturday's game against the Philadelphia Flyers. Forsberg did not return to the game. Forsberg has since been listed day-to-day, which is a surprisingly promising outlook considering how things looked after the injury.
Tomasino, however, has been the topic of conversation among analysts and fans alike since the beginning of the season. Tomasino played 76 games with Nashville last season, tallying 11 goals and 21 assists. Many expected Tomasino to have a lock on a roster spot this season, but were surprised when the team sent Tomasino to the Predators AHL affiliate Milwaukee Admirals to start the season.
After this announcement, John Hynes explained why Tomasino would start the season in Milwaukee. However, many fans felt (and continue to feel) the reasons weren't good enough. The two reasons given were that he needed more time to work on his play without the puck, and that the team was going to have a hard time finding opportunities for him to play top minutes in Nashville.
With the injury to Forsberg, the Predators have a percect opportunity to find top minutes for Tomasino. The only question that remains is whether or not Tomasino has improved his play away from the puck enough to stay with the team past Forsberg's return.
Tomasino has been solid in Milwaukee. Through 38 games, he's scored 12 goals and 20 assists. He's typically played on the first line and has been a fixture on the Admirals power play.
After losing their leading scorer, the Predators need someone to fill the void and bring a heavy offensive touch along with them. Tomasino provides the best chance to fill that role. Expect to see him tonight as the Predators take on the Arizona Coyotes in Nashville.
-featured image via Christopher Hanewinckel/USA TODAY Sports-
