Forward Ryan leaves Preds training camp

Forward Mike Ryan voluntarily left the Nashville Predators training camp, but coach Barry Trotz stresses that the door is always open if he wants to return.

David Poile, president of hockey operations/general manager, announced Tuesday that Ryan has been released from his professional tryout with the Predators. Poile also announced that goaltender Drew MacIntyre has been reassigned to the Milwaukee Admirals of the American Hockey League.

"We like him, but Ryan needs to sort some things out," said Trotz. "He had a decent camp. We were still getting to know him, but we could see he had some speed and that he could be a good two-way player. He has some elements that we could use in this organization."

Trotz didn't know if Ryan had plans to try out for another team or not. Ryan did not practice with the team Tuesday.

"We talked and he just doesn't feel like his mind is here right now," Trotz said.

Ryan played with Buffalo the past two seasons. He was in camp as a free agent on a tryout basis.

The Predators, who play the Carolina Hurricanes Thursday at 7 at the Sommet Center in a preseason game, have 20 forwards, eight defensemen and two goaltenders still in training camp.

SICK ARNOTT: Center Jason Arnott appears to be over this flu problems. He has not played in a preseason game, something that concerns Trotz. He would like to see Arnott play in at least two of the three final preseason games.

"We need to get him back on the ice in a game," said Trotz.

Trotz wants Arnott to get back in a flow on a line with J.P. Dumont. The only problem is that Dumont is going to miss practice Wednesday to be with his wife as she has a baby. Dumont will play Thursday night.

"Jason and J.P. are used to being on the same line together, but we need them to work together on the power play," Trotz said. "Special teams are going to be very important to our success this season."

Defenseman Ville Koistinen, who Trotz plans to use as the quarterback for the power play, has also not played in a preseason game due to a shoulder injury and a minor knee problem. He worked out Tuesday with the team and is expected to be ready for Thursday's game with Carolina.

"Koisty should be ready to go," Trotz said. "We expect him to be an important part of the power play. We need him out there."

Center David Legwand had problems with a swollen knee Monday. He did not practice Tuesday. He is not expected to practice Wednesday or to play Thursday.