Wood was treated like a rock star on the red carpet in Nashville at the NHL Entry Draft in 2023, stopping to sign autographs for local fans. (John Russell/Nashville Predators)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

BIG LEAGUES

Nanaimo hockey product signs entry-level NHL contract

Mar 31, 2025 | 1:25 PM

NANAIMO — Matthew Wood has signed his first NHL contract.

The local minor hockey product put pen to paper on a three-year, entry-level contract with the Nashville Predators on Saturday, March 29.

For days when Wood is with the Predators, he’ll earn $950,000 per year, however, his salary in the American Hockey League is projected to be $83,000.

Signing and performance bonuses could earn the 20-year-old more.

Wood was drafted by the Predators as their first-round selection, 15th overall at the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, hosted by Nashville.

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This season, Wood suited up for the University of Minnesota and recorded career-high totals in goals (17) and points (39) in as many games. He was also second on his team in assists with 22.

Wood’s season ended on Thursday as his team lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament playoffs.

Prior to collegiate hockey, Wood was a BCHL standout with the Victoria Grizzlies.

He spent two seasons on the south Island, posting 98 points in 64 games, being named rookie of the year in the 2021-22 season.

Wood also represented Canada at the 2024 World Junior Hockey Championships, notching four points in five games, as well as at the 2023 U-18 World Championships where he won a bronze medal and had 13 points through the tournament.

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