Predators' Luke Evangelista's focus looks ahead: "We're trying to build something here for next season"

Evangelista explained his hopes for the Predators' future following last night's victory

(C/ Andew Nelles)

By Anthony Pellegrino @Pellegrinoap50 IceInsider.com Predators All Access Reporter

NASHVILLE--The Predators snapped a four-game losing streak on home ice last night against the Toronto Maple Leafs, who currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference.

"Games like that can swing momentum for us," Luke Evangelista said following the Predators' 5-2 victory over Toronto last night. "You could really feel the atmosphere here in the building, as we go down early and come back. The building was alive."

Luke Evangelista registered a goal and two assists, for his first three-point outing of the season.

"We've got to capitalize on wins like this. We're not quitting at this point in the season just because of where we are. We're trying to build something here for next season."

The 23-year-old’s contract will expire in the offseason, where he will become an RFA for the first time in his career. Whether the Predators opt to re-sign the forward or allow him to test the waters of free agency, is still in question.

How the Predators look ahead as as whole to next season also remains undecided, as an offseason dictation could lead the team into another push for the playoffs, or a slightly different approach in a "rebuild".

Evangelista is on pace to end the season with 28 points, a definite decline from 39 points with the team last season.

"It hasn't been an easy year. More feeling frustrated than on nights like this. You've got to enjoy these kind of nights because they don't come around often (especially this year)."

Andrew Brunette slotted Evangelista into the top right-wing slot, playing alongside Filip Forsberg and Ryan O'Reilly, which led the Predators to much-needed offensive success.

"I had a great opportunity tonight to play with some great players, and factor in Fil (Forsberg), and try and capitalize off that and keep the momentum going."

Evangelista's mom was in town for his three-point performance last night. Perhaps her home-cooked chicken pesto cutlets were the secret to success.

"She fuled me tonight. Pretty cool having her in town for Hockey Night in Canada."

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