Predators Recall Prospect Joakim Kemell from AHL

The 21-year-old forward joins the NHL club as the Predators look to retool ahead of the trade deadline.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Nashville Predators have recalled forward Joakim Kemell from their AHL affiliate in Milwaukee. Kemell, a 21-year-old prospect, will likely make his NHL debut on Thursday against the Boston Bruins as the Predators continue to sell off assets ahead of the trade deadline.

Why it matters

Kemell is considered one of the Predators' top young talents, and his call-up provides him an opportunity to showcase his skills at the NHL level as the team looks to the future. The Predators have been active in trade discussions, having already dealt veteran forward Michael Bunting, creating an opening for Kemell's promotion.

The details

Kemell was a first-round pick of the Predators in the 2022 NHL Draft. He has been playing with the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals this season, where he has 12 goals and 18 assists in 45 games. The Predators are hoping Kemell can provide a spark as they continue to reshape their roster ahead of the trade deadline.

  • Kemell was called up from AHL Milwaukee on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • The Predators traded veteran forward Michael Bunting earlier this season, creating an opening for Kemell's promotion.

The players

Joakim Kemell

A 21-year-old forward who was a first-round pick of the Nashville Predators in the 2022 NHL Draft. He has been playing with the Predators' AHL affiliate in Milwaukee this season.

Michael Bunting

A veteran forward who was traded by the Predators earlier this season, creating an opening for Kemell's promotion to the NHL.

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What’s next

Kemell is expected to make his NHL debut on Thursday, March 6, 2026 against the Boston Bruins.

The takeaway

Kemell's call-up represents an opportunity for the Predators to evaluate one of their top prospects as the team looks to retool its roster ahead of the trade deadline. His performance in the NHL could impact the team's future plans.