It’s hard to believe the puck will drop on the 2009-2010 in just 2 months. While you were out working on your tan and enjoying another beautiful Milwaukee summer, the Admirals front office was busy getting ready to welcome back hockey fans back to the Bradley Center for another great season. As to be expected, there will be some new faces in the Ads locker room, and the same holds true for our NHL affiliate, the Nashville Predators.

Admirals fans are certainly sad to see Milwaukee alumni like Vern Fiddler, Ville Koistenen, and Greg Zanon move on to play for other organizations, but there are some new players on the roster to get excited about. Rather than sift through the internet to learn a little more about the Nashville’s new additions, allow me to introduce you to them. Consider this the cliff notes of their careers prior to being signed by Nashville.

Ben Eaves, Center - The 27 year-old, Minnesota natives Eaves has spent the last 2 seasons playing in the Finnish National League with the Espoo Blues. Last season he set the league record for post season points, scoring 4 goals and 20 assists in just 14 games. Prior to his stint in Europe, he played 2 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins organization (he was drafted 4th round, 131st overall in 2001). Before playing in the pros , Eaves played 4 years at Boston College. He played with some big name players during those 4 years, including Rob Scuderi (member of the Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins), Krys Kolanos (Milwaukee fans know that name all too well from his days with the Houston Aeros), and Brian Gionta (7 year NHL vet).

Ben Guite, Right Wing – The 31 year-old Guite comes to Nashville after playing 3 seasons with the Colorado Avalanche. Admirals fans might remember Guite from his time with the Cincinnati Mighty Ducks in 2001-2002. What can Predators fans expect to see from the Montreal native? A tough grinder who isn’t afraid to be physical on the ice. At 6’1, 211 lbs, Guite is going to offer size and physicality that Nashville was lacking.

Peter Olvecky, Left Wing – Admirals fans have seen plenty of the 23 year-old Olvecky, as he has spent the last 4 seasons with the Houston Aeros. He got his first shot in the NHL last season, playing 31 games with the Minnesota Wild. Scouting reports all list Olvecky as a skilled player who can play left, center, or right. At 6’2, 195 lbs, he’ll be a good addition to the organization.