Tomasino Talks Returning to Nashville After Season of Growth in Milwaukee

Tommer's back.
Appearing on the latest episode of the Predators Official Podcast, forward Philip Tomasino talked about receiving the long-awaited call up to Nashville after starting the season with the Preds' AHL affiliate Milwaukee Admirals.
While Tomasino's assignment to the AHL following the Preds' return from Europe came as a surprise to many, the 21-year-old forward credits his time in Milwaukee for his improved play and confidence in the NHL.
Since his call up in mid-February, Tomasino has made quite the impact, registering 13 points (4g-9a) in 18 games.
"[Being sent down to Milwaukee] was for me trying to figure out my game," Tomasino said. "It was great for me to go through that. I came back a better player and person and I've learned a lot. I always try to look at things from a positive point of view and it has definitely helped me in the long run. [My parents] have both always been there for me, always supported me, but I think that was on myself - having to look at myself in the mirror and try to find ways to improve."

Being able to lean on veteran teammates has also proved important and supportive.
"Johansen, Forsberg, Duchene - those guys really helped me," Tomasino said. "Last year was my first year and I didn't really know anything. This year I came back and had a better sense of everything going on. I knew how everything worked. We have such a great leadership group in general and I can go to any one of those guys."
Having the veterans around has helped the younger players learn the ropes. Eight players from the current roster spent some time with the Admirals this season.
But with a lot of young faces now in the mix, it has brought a new energy to the team.
"That is why all the young guys, especially [Afanasyev, Evangelista and myself] are just trying to enjoy every moment because you don't know what could happen in the future," Tomasino said. "It just goes to show how important each day is and that you can't take it for granted. That's just why we are having such a good time right now. We're having a lot of fun with it."
The aftermath of the trade deadline, which saw veteran skaters like Mattias Ekholm, Mikael Granlund and Nino Niederreiter move to other clubs, has created a lot of opportunity for the younger players too.
"We're all competing hard for each other." Tomasino said. "It's amazing, you look at us and our willingness to compete and battle for each other, whether it is blocking shots along the boards and making that extra play for the team. Everyone is doing whatever they can right now. It's fun to be a part of."
Going through adversity in the NHL is inevitable. Even with all those changes Tomasino has been able to find that support in teammates, staff, his parents and, most importantly, a positive mindset.
"Try to enjoy every moment whether it is the ups and downs," he said. "It's important to stay even-keeled and stay positive throughout everything."
Click here to listen to Tomasino's full interview
on Episode 197 of the Predators Official Podcast, hosted by Darren McFarland and Kara Hammer.