Nashville Predators Sign Mattias Ekholm To Extension

The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Mattias Ekholm to a four-year extension. It will have an average annual value of $6.25 million and begin during the 2022-23 season. He was eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Hearing NASH gets a key piece of business done. Mattias Ekholm re-signing at 4 years, $6.25M AAV (not $6.35)
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 13, 2021

It was previously reported that the Predators were interested in locking up Ekholm, so it's not too surprising to see a deal now finalized. He's an integral part of Nashville's blueline and now he is here to stay.

In 48 games last season, Ekholm scored six goals and had 23 points. He also had a +19 rating due to his dependable defensive play. In 586 career games with the Predators, he has 51 goals, 168 assists and 219 points.

Now, the Predators should focus on extending Filip Forsberg. He's another key player with an expiring contract.