Goalie Juuse Saros has committed to a future with the Nashville Predators, signing a four-year contract worth $40 million on Monday. This deal, which has an average annual value of $5 million, comes after the 26-year-old former free agent narrowly avoided a salary arbitration hearing that was scheduled to take place on Wednesday.
Predators general manager David Poile expressed much enthusiasm at the prospect of retaining Saros, explaining: “Juuse has proven himself as one of the best young goaltenders in the NHL, and we are very pleased to have him remain our No. 1 goaltender for years to come.” He further complimented Saros on his strong mentality and imposing physical presence.
Saros impressed Predators fans last season during his 21-11-1 record, with a 2.28 goals-against average, .927 save percentage, and three shutouts in 36 appearances. Among goalies with at least 15 NHL appearances, Saros tied for fourth place in save percentage over the season.
With Pekka Rinne deciding to retire on July 13, the responsibility has fallen on Saros to become his team’s number one choice goalie. According to Poile, Saros has provided his team with the confidence they need to win game in and game out. He furthermore stated that the Predators’ goaltenders are expected to form a key component of the team’s success in the 2021-22 season.
