Predators' Cole O'Hara records assist in NHL debut alongside Steven Stamkos

The 23-year-old forward was recalled from the AHL and played on the top line in Nashville's season finale.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game, with the players and action broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette of navy, gold, and white.A young Predators forward makes his NHL debut alongside seasoned stars, showcasing the next generation of Nashville hockey talent.Today in Milwaukee

In his NHL debut, Nashville Predators forward Cole O'Hara recorded an assist on a goal by veteran Steven Stamkos in the first period of the team's season finale against the Anaheim Ducks. O'Hara, who was recalled from the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals earlier in the day, played on the top line with Stamkos and Ryan O'Reilly.

Why it matters

O'Hara's NHL debut and first point came in a meaningful game for the Predators, who were dealing with several injuries up front. The 23-year-old forward is an intriguing prospect for Nashville, having been drafted in the fourth round in 2022 and signing an entry-level contract last year after a strong college career at UMass.

The details

Midway through the first period, O'Hara forced a turnover in the Anaheim zone and passed the puck to Stamkos, who scored to tie the game. O'Hara finished the game with one assist, one shot, and two hits in 11:23 of ice time, showcasing his speed and vision with the puck. Despite the 5-4 loss, O'Hara called the experience 'surreal' and said he tried to embrace the moment and learn from veteran linemates Stamkos and O'Reilly.

  • O'Hara was recalled from the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals earlier in the day on April 16, 2026.
  • O'Hara recorded his first NHL point with an assist on Stamkos' goal midway through the first period.

The players

Cole O'Hara

A 23-year-old forward who was making his NHL debut for the Nashville Predators after being recalled from the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals earlier in the day. O'Hara was originally drafted by the Predators in the fourth round in 2022 and signed an entry-level contract with the team in 2025 after a strong college career at UMass.

Steven Stamkos

A veteran forward for the Nashville Predators who scored the goal assisted by O'Hara, marking his 632nd career NHL goal and 1,253rd point.

Ryan O'Reilly

A veteran forward for the Nashville Predators who played on the top line with O'Hara and Stamkos in the team's season finale.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A really cool experience, something I'll remember for a long time. It was nice to have Stamkos put that one in.”

— Cole O'Hara, Nashville Predators forward

“It was really cool to experience that and be part of the history of his career.”

— Steven Stamkos, Nashville Predators forward

What’s next

O'Hara plans to use this NHL debut experience to help his chances of making the Predators' roster out of training camp next season.

The takeaway

O'Hara's NHL debut and first point alongside veteran stars like Stamkos and O'Reilly is an encouraging sign for the Predators' future, as the 23-year-old forward looks to build on this experience and earn a permanent spot on the NHL roster.