Predators Rumors: Nashville To Blow Up Roster?

The Nashville Predators find themselves in an awkward situation, with their disappointing 9-17-6 record leaving them at the bottom of the NHL standings. 

According to Matt Larkin of Daily Faceoff, general manager Barry Trotz may soon have no choice but to dismantle the roster if the team’s fortunes don’t improve by January. 

Trading pending free agent Gustav Nyquist is described as the “no-brainer” first step, as his $3.185 million cap hit, veteran presence, and ability to drive play make him a perfect fit for contenders looking to bolster their top-nine forward depth. 

Right-shot defenseman Alexandre Carrier, signed for two and a half more seasons at $3.75 million annually, could also draw significant interest from teams craving shutdown blueliners ahead of the playoffs.

Gustav Nyquist with his biggest goal of the season. Ties the game 4-4.

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Several other names are realistic trade options for Trotz, particularly rugged defenders Luke Schenn and Jeremy Lauzon, both signed through next season and valued for their physical, playoff-ready style. 

Longtime Predator Colton Sissons, despite a down year, remains a reliable fourth-line center and faceoff specialist who could be attractive for postseason-bound teams. 

Larkin also suggests that moving Ryan O’Reilly and Tommy Novak might be worth exploring. 

O’Reilly’s proven leadership and two-way game at $4.5 million annually through 2027 could entice contenders looking for depth down the middle, while Novak’s middle-six playmaking ability and affordable deal might fetch Nashville a top prospect or early-round draft pick.

Cheap shot given by Jeremy Lauzon to Elias Pettersson after the Nashville goal #Canucks | #Preds
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If Trotz opts for a full-scale teardown, bold moves involving Jonathan Marchessault or Steven Stamkos could enter the conversation, though their trade protections—Marchessault’s 15-team no-trade list and Stamkos’ full no-movement clause—complicate any potential deal. 

Franchise cornerstone Roman Josi remains off-limits for now, but Larkin likens his situation to Erik Karlsson’s departure from San Jose, suggesting that a “break glass in case of emergency” scenario isn’t out of the question. 

With playoff hopes all but extinguished and frustration mounting, Larkin believes a shakeup is inevitable: “If the Trotz GM era has taught us anything, it’s that they never do what we expect them to.” 

The coming months could determine whether Nashville retools for the future or blows it up entirely.

Photo Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images