In this series, we take a look at each team and see what they’ve done over the offseason. Next up is the Nashville Predators.
Key additions: Erik Haula, Nicolas Hague, Nick Perbix
The Preds have made a few depth additions such as Erik Haula, but nothing earth-shattering. The defense does look stronger with Hague and Perbix added to the mix. Otherwise, no major changes to the roster have been made. The team seems to be operating under the assumption that a bounce back season is in order after what was a disappointing year.
Key subtractions: Colton Sissons, Kieffer Bellows, Jakub Vrana, Jeremy Lauzon, Marc Del Gaizo
The Preds have not lost anything substantial. The most notable loss is Colton Sissons, who has consistently been a solid 4th line penalty killer for the squad throughout his tenure.
Highest draft pick: Brady Martin, 5th overall
Salary cap space: $10 million
Staff: The Preds did make some changes to their staff, bringing along former Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson as an assistant. Andrew Brunette will return for his 3rd season as head coach.
Other: The Preds still have to extend 23 year old RFA forward Luke Evangelista. Overall, the direction of this Predators team as a whole is a mystery at the moment. This is a team that should probably be rebuilding, but has been making moves that suggest they have a contention window open right now. It’s a bold strategy, lets see if it pays off for them.
All transactions available via puck pedia
