The Predators have brought Zachary L’Heureux up from AHL Milwaukee, and he’s set to play his first NHL game against the Bruins on Tuesday. This news came from Alex Daugherty of the Tennessean, with Nick Kieser from 102.5 The Game confirming his debut in the lineup. No roster changes were needed since there was already a spot open for him.
L’Heureux, who was picked 27th overall in 2021, is known for being quite the troublemaker on ice. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 196 pounds, he’s been called an agitator—a term that might be putting it mildly. His junior years with Moncton Wildcats and Halifax Mooseheads were marked by frequent suspensions, leading to low game counts but a staggering 197 penalty minutes last year with Milwaukee.
Despite his reputation for causing chaos , L’Heureux has shown real talent in scoring. He tallied 19 goals and 48 points during the regular season and led the AHL playoffs with ten goals in just fifteen games. In juniors, he racked up an impressive total of 190 points over 167 games. Scott Wheeler from The Athletic ranked him sixth among Nashville’s prospects earlier this year.
Rising Star or Risky Player?
While not making it into many top league-wide rankings yet, L’Heureux holds promise as a player who could make a difference on the fourth line long-term—even if his scoring doesn’t shine in the NHL right away. Fans might wonder if he’ll bring more excitement or drama to the team.
In Tuesday’s game against Boston, L’Heureux will join forces with Michael McCarron and Cole Smith as they aim to secure their first victory after starting the season winless at 0-5-0.
What do you think? Can he help turn things around for them?
