Negotiations between Predators and goaltender Juuse Saros nearing extension

The Nashville Predators are looking to lock Juuse Saros down for the long term.

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the team is closing in on an eight-year extension with the goaltender.

Entering into the final year of his current four-year, $20 million contract, Saros becomes eligible to sign an extension starting July 1.

The 29-year-old Finn put up a 35-24-5 record, 2.86 goals-against average and .906 save percentage over 64 appearances in 2023-24.

Drafted by the team as the 99th overall pick in 2013, Saros has played in 350 games across his career, recording a 2.63 goals-against average and .917 save percentage.

Per Friedman, the AAV of Saros’ new deal could be in the $7 million range.

The Nashville Predators are currently in negotiations with goaltender Juuse Saros on a contract extension, according to reports from various sources. Saros, who has been with the Predators since the 2015-2016 season, has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the team with his strong play between the pipes.

Saros, a native of Finland, has steadily improved his game over the years and has emerged as the Predators’ starting goaltender. His quick reflexes, agility, and ability to track the puck have made him a formidable opponent for opposing teams. In the 2020-2021 season, Saros posted a .927 save percentage and a 2.28 goals against average, solidifying his status as one of the top goaltenders in the league.

Negotiations between Saros and the Predators are said to be progressing well, with both sides expressing a desire to reach a deal that will keep the talented netminder in Nashville for the foreseeable future. The Predators are keen on locking up Saros long-term, as they see him as a key piece of their roster moving forward.

While the details of the contract extension have not been disclosed, it is expected that Saros will command a significant raise from his current salary of $1.5 million per season. Given his performance and importance to the team, it is likely that Saros will be looking for a contract that reflects his value as one of the top goaltenders in the league.

For Predators fans, the news of negotiations between the team and Saros is undoubtedly a positive development. Keeping a player of Saros’ caliber in Nashville will only strengthen the team’s chances of success in the upcoming seasons. With Saros between the pipes, the Predators have a reliable last line of defense that can help propel them to victory on any given night.

As negotiations between the Predators and Juuse Saros continue to progress, fans will be eagerly awaiting news of a contract extension that will keep their star goaltender in Nashville for years to come. With Saros’ talent and potential, the Predators are poised to remain competitive in the NHL for seasons to come.