Hutton may leave Predators: Report

NASHVILLE – Carter Hutton’s days with the Nashville Predators may be numbered.

In a report posted on Monday to the team’s official website, Predators general manager David Poile said the two sides are talking, but added the soon-to-be free agent goaltender might be looking for a better fit.

Hutton earned spot duty behind all-star Pekka Rinne this past season, posting a 7-5-4 record in 17 appearances, with a 2.33 goals against average, .918 save percentage and two shutouts.

He also spelled Rinne three times during the postseason and is the team’s nominee for the Bill Masterton Trophy.

Poile wouldn’t rule out a return in a sit-down with media, but has already hedged his bets, re-signing minor-leaguer Marek Manzanec to a two-way deal.

“I think Carter sees signing with the Predators as a little bit of a dead end to his career, meaning he thinks he’s played well enough, which I would agree… I think he feels that going to another team will give him a better opportunity to get more games and to probably extend his career,” Poile said in a story written by Brooks Bratten.

“So it’s not over yet, but I would say that’s probably the way Carter is leaning, and I have a tough time arguing against that. I think Carter has done a great job for us. He’s a good goaltender, real good person, brings good chemistry, all those things, but it is what it is.”

Hutton, who was not drafted, has spent time with Philadelphia, San Jose and Chicago’s organizations since graduating from UMass-Lowell.