The Nashville Predators announced a five‑year, $22.5 million contract with forward Jack Drury, locking the 27‑year‑old into the roster through the early part of the next decade. The deal underscores the club’s intent to build around a player who has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable centremen.
A family’s imprint on the game
Drury’s hockey pedigree runs deep. His father, Ted Drury, skated eight seasons in the NHL, and his uncle, Chris Drury, now serves as president of hockey operations and general manager for the New York Rangers. Growing up amid such a background instilled in Jack a relentless work ethic and a deep appreciation for the nuances of the sport.
Drafted in the second round of the 2018 NHL Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes, Drury climbed through the Hurricanes’ system before making his mark with the Colorado Avalanche. Last season he matched his career high with 27 points, comprising 10 goals and 17 assists, while appearing in all 82 games. His 58.1 percent face‑off win rate ranked fifth among players with at least 900 draws, highlighting his defensive reliability.
Playoff experience and international success
In the postseason, Drury contributed three goals and two assists, helping the Avalanche reach the Western Conference Final. His trophy case includes a Calder Cup championship with the Chicago Wolves in 2021‑22 and a Swedish Hockey League title with the Växjö Lakers in 2020‑21. That same season he earned a vote for the Selke Trophy, recognizing his excellence in defensive forward play.
The contract not only secures a proven penalty‑killing specialist but also adds a player whose face‑off dominance and two‑way responsibility align perfectly with Nashville’s tactical identity. General manager Don Fisher emphasized that Drury’s blend of skill, experience, and family‑rooted professionalism makes him an ideal cornerstone for the Predators’ next chapter.