BREAKING NEWS: Nashville Predators NHL Legend Pekka Rinne Returns as Co-Owner
Rinne, who spent his entire 15-season NHL career with the Predators, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in franchise history. From winning the Vezina Trophy in 2018 to leading the team to its first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2017, Rinne’s contributions both on and off the ice cemented his legacy as a Nashville icon.
“This is a proud moment not just for our organization, but for the entire city,” said Haslam in an official statement. “Pekka has always embodied the spirit, heart, and values of the Predators. Having him return in a leadership role as co-owner is an exciting new chapter for our franchise.”
Since his retirement in 2021, Rinne has remained closely tied to the Predators, serving in ambassadorial and development roles. His jersey number 35 was retired in 2022 — the first in franchise history — a testament to his impact and popularity.
Speaking at a press conference, Rinne expressed deep gratitude and enthusiasm for his new role: “Nashville has given me everything, and I’ve always felt like this is home. Being able to return as a co-owner and continue contributing to the success of this amazing team is truly an honor.”
The move signifies not only a deepening of Rinne’s bond with the franchise but also a shift toward involving former players in ownership and decision-making roles — a trend gaining momentum across professional sports.
Fans can expect to see Rinne actively involved in community outreach, team development, and broader organizational initiatives as the Predators look to build on recent successes and aim for another deep playoff run.