Nashville Predators Daily: Draft, trade talks dominate weekend news
The front office of the Nashville Predators is hard at work. The opening round of the NHL Entry draft concluded with a major pick, and trade talks continue.
It is a busy weekend for the Nashville Predators, capping off a busy week. All the activity leads us to one thing: the 2017-18 season. The team’s front office, led by General Manager David Poile, work to fill the vacant holes, preparing the team for another Stanley Cup Run.
The opening round of the NHL Entry Draft came and went on Friday night, with little shock in the Predators’ selection. Or the envious boo’s from Chicago Blackhawk fans. Of course, they boo’ed their team’s pick as well. Still, the fan of the Predators got swept up in the pick. A pick that brings a sharp-shooting winger to help zero in on the goal.
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With the 30th selection in the draft, the Predators picked from the Sioux City Musketeers. The 5 feet 10 inch winger notched 54 points in 52 games for the Musketeers, including 30 goals. His play earned high prospect rankings, including No. 8 of all North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting and 17th overall by Bob McKenzie of TSN.
Trade Talk
Matt Duchene's agent, Pat Brisson had a quick chat with Joe Sakic at the end of 1st round and is now in discussion with David Poile...
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 24, 2017
Talks are heating up, or so it appears, between the Nashville Predators and the Colorado Avalanche. The target is Matt Duchene. As a high-scoring center, Duchene would add an extra dimension offensively to the front-line attack. However, there is concern over his plus/minus rating, which was a league low in 2016-17. The poor play of the Avalanche overall contributed to that rating, and the defense of the Predators would offset that.
Still, would Poile give up a defensemen (and more) to get a player due $6 million in each of the next two season? The team’s philosophy is defenseman-focused, meaning it is unlikely the Predators give up a highly valued player. That is, unless Poile has something up his sleeve.
No doubt the Preds have interest in Duchene, but don't want to give up a Dman. Work to be done. Saturday should be interesting.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 24, 2017