The 25-year-old from Pisek, Czech Republic, spent most of the past three seasons with Nashville's AHL affiliate in Milwaukee, splitting time last season with Saros. Mazanec posted a 19-15-5 record in the previous campaign to go along with four shutouts.
But it's that NHL experience, coupled with his preseason play, which was enough to earn him the seat next to Rinne in the locker room.
"Both Mazanec and Saros played really well in the preseason - it was a tough decision, but I think Maz has done the job in here in the exhibition games," Head Coach Peter Laviolette said. "He looks good in the practice time he's gotten, and right now, this is the guy that's part of our team. Both guys played well, and we wanted the guy with a little bit more experience in our organization."
For Rinne, the chance to build a relationship with Mazanec as goaltending partners is ideal - a young netminder who Rinne can mentor, and who will also keep things light.
"I'm excited for both of us," Rinne said. "I've always had great partners here in Nashville, so I'm excited to start working with Maz. He's a great young goalie, and he has a great personality. Guys like him, and he's a funny guy, always in a good mood, so I'm looking forward working with him.
"He's low key, he likes humor, likes jokes, always in a good mood, but really laid back. I think he has the right personality to be a good team guy."
Mazanec is equally thrilled to be Rinne's teammate and reap all the benefits that come with collaborating alongside one of the game's top netminders.
"To work with one of the best goalies in the world, it's awesome," Mazanec said. "I want to watch him and learn some stuff from him, like how he handles the puck in tough situations during the game and how he carries himself."
Defenseman Anthony Bitetto knows Mazanec better than most in the Preds room, having played with him as a member of the Admirals. Bitetto is confident in the choice, not only for his ability on the ice, but his mentality off of it.