Nashville Predators select Matthew Wood 15th overall

With the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, in front of a cheering home crowd, the Nashville Predators added Matthew Wood from the University of Connecticut.

2023 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Matthew Wood

A look at youthful forward Matthew Wood, who will bring playmaking abilities as well as size to his future team.

On the ForecheckJeff Middleton

Jeff already broke down Wood’s game, focusing on the playmaking talent the forward will bring to his team. Wood isn’t a one-dimensional player, though; he also has a great shot and plays a good defensive game.

[Editor’s note: A transcription error originally gave Wood’s 2021-22 statistics with the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL instead of the UConn Huskies.]

In his first season in the NCAA, despite starting at age 17, Wood put together 34 points, including 11 goals, in 35 games. Barry Trotz wanted the Predators to look for explosive offensive power, and Wood definitely has the potential to deliver.