Thanks to the gang at Admirals Short Shifts for the following tip this evening:
Nick Spaling impressed during training camp as someone who could fill a variety of roles up front, but got off to a slow start offensively for Milwaukee, with just 1 goal and 6 assists through 27 games. This is an interesting call, as Andreas Thuresson was considered by most observers to be the most likely candidate.
A 2nd-round pick in the 2007 draft (57th overall), Spaling has yet to play in an NHL game.
UPDATE: This has now been confirmed by the Preds, text of the press release follows after the jump…
Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has recalled forward Nick Spaling from Milwaukee (AHL).
Spaling, 21 (9/19/88), has seven points (1g-6a) in 27 games for the Admirals this season, including points (1g-2a) in his last three outings (all wins), and in four of his last five (1g-3a). In his second professional season, this is the first career recall for the 6-1, 196-pound forward. Nashville’s third choice, 58th overall (second round) in the 2007 Entry Draft, Spaling tied for fourth on the Admirals in points (12g-23a-35pts) and tied for fifth in assists in 2008-09.