The Nashville Predators are in a tough spot, and it’s raising some serious questions about their future. With a disappointing 5-6-3 start to the 2024-25 season, the team is sitting sixth in the Central Division, far from where they envisioned themselves. But here’s where it gets controversial: Could this be the beginning of a major shake-up in Nashville? Let’s dive in.
Two years after General Manager Barry Trotz made bold moves by signing stars like Steven Stamkos, the results haven’t materialized. On a recent episode of Daily Faceoff Live, Jeff Marek, Tyler Yaremchuk, and Carter Hutton dissected what could happen if the Predators don’t turn things around. And this is the part most people miss: With key players like Filip Forsberg, Roman Josi, and Juuse Saros holding significant value, the team’s core might be the only asset that could fetch a substantial return in a trade.
Yaremchuk pointed out the complexity: Forsberg’s full no-movement clause limits options, and trading someone like Stamkos would likely require retaining salary. Here’s the bold question: Could Trotz really approach a new owner and say, ‘We spent big on this player, but now we need to trade him for a pick?’ It’s a risky move that could backfire.
Marek added an intriguing perspective on Trotz’s role, suggesting that firing the coach—who is also the team’s most successful in history—would be a tough sell. ‘You broke it, you buy it,’ Marek said, implying Trotz’s legacy ties him to the team’s fate. But is that fair to the players?
If Nashville opts for a rebuild, prospects like Brady Martin, Tanner Molendyk, and Teddy Stiga could play a role, but they’re not instant game-changers. Unlike teams like the San Jose Sharks or Chicago Blackhawks, the Predators lack a deep bench of A-list talent ready to step in. The real question is: How long would a rebuild take, and who would stick around for it?
Forsberg, in particular, stands out. Having already endured one rebuild, asking him to go through another—especially at this stage of his career—feels unfair. Marek suggested a candid conversation with Forsberg: ‘Do you have the stomach for years of pain before we get back on top?’ This is where it gets emotional: For veterans with no-move clauses, the decision isn’t just about hockey—it’s about their legacy and time left in the game.
Here’s the controversial take: If the Predators decide to rebuild, they might need to part ways with their most valuable assets, even if it means breaking up the core. But is that the right move, or should they double down and hope for a turnaround? What do you think? Let us know in the comments—this is a debate worth having.
