Predators Sign Kelsey Wilson to Two-Way Contract

The Nashville Predators welcomed Kelsey Wilson back to North America with a one-year, two-way contract. Wilson last played with Milwaukee season before last and signed to play in Europe last summer.

This appears to be a depth signing as Wilson is most likely slated to return to the Admirals in the fall. With Wade Belak signed for next season, there is little need for a second enforcer at the NHL level.

Here is the complete release from the Predators...

NASHVILLE PREDATORS INK KELSEY WILSON TO A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT

Nashville, Tenn. (May 17, 2010) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed forward Kelsey Wilson to a one-year contract worth $525,000 at the NHL level and $70,000 at the AHL level.

Wilson, 24 (1/22/10), returns to North America after one season with EC Red Bull Salzburg, which he helped win the Erste Bank Liga (Austria) title in 2009-10. The Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., native led the Austrian League in penalty minutes (265) while amassing 40 points (16g-33a) in 70 games a season ago. Prior to his season abroad, Wilson spent three campaigns with Milwaukee (AHL), leading the Admirals in penalty minutes in all three seasons (2006-09). In 2008-09, the Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., native was one of just four AHLers to post at least 30 points (15g-17a-32pts) and 150 penalty minutes (160), and in 2006-07, he led all AHL rookies in penalty minutes (215).

Originally signed by Nashville as an amateur free agent on Oct. 6, 2006, the 6-1, 214-pound left winger has 70 points (32g-38a) and 554 penalty minutes in 220 American Hockey League contests.

More Later...

Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass