BREAKING: Predators Confirms two-way contract deal with Top Star
On Monday, the Nashville Predators re-signed defenseman to a one-year, two-way contract with an NHL cap hit of $775,000 for the 2024-25 season. This deal follows the conclusion of Del Gaizo’s entry-level contract, which had an average annual value (AAV) of $925,000 and included a $93,000 annual signing bonus.
Originally drafted in the fourth round, 109th overall, by the Predators in the 2019 NHL Draft, Del Gaizo spent his first two full professional seasons with the Milwaukee Admirals, Nashville’s AHL affiliate. He made his NHL debut on November 4, 2023, against the Edmonton Oilers, registering an assist in a 5-2 victory.
The 24-year-old played nine NHL games last season, recording three assists, each in his first three appearances, along with a +2 rating while averaging 16:28 of ice time. In the AHL, Del Gaizo was a consistent contributor for Milwaukee, tallying 34 points (eight goals, 26 assists) in 60 games with a +18 rating. His strong play helped the Admirals secure the Central Division title, and he added seven points in 15 Calder Cup Playoff games as Milwaukee reached the Western Conference Final, eventually falling to the Coachella Valley Firebirds.
In his AHL career, Del Gaizo has played 207 games, including a brief stint with the Chicago Wolves, amassing 17 goals, 72 assists, and a +10 rating. He has also recorded 19 points in 40 playoff games.
The Preds have signed defenseman Marc Del Gaizo to a one-year, two-way contract worth $775,000 at the NHL level.
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— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) September 9, 2024
Before turning pro, Del Gaizo was a key player at UMass for three seasons, contributing to the program’s first-ever NCAA championship in 2021 after the departure of Cale Makar. His reliable presence on defense played a vital role in the team’s success.