Nashville Predators: Sorting through Predators trade rumors

LAS VEGAS, NV - JUNE 21: General manager David Poile of the Nashville Predators poses for a portrait with the NHL General Manager of the Year Award at the 2017 NHL Awards at T-Mobile Arena on June 21, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Brian Babineau/NHLI via Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Radim Vrbata

Speaking of value, it would not take much in return for the Florida Panthers to trade Radim Vrbata. To say signing the veteran winger was a bust is stating the obvious. Good thing it was only for $2.5 million.

That is $500,000 per goal he accumulated so far.

But, there is an interesting connection for Vrbata to come to the Predators. Nick Bonino.

The 2014-15 season was the best of Vrbata’s career, finishing with 63 points, including 31 goals. Bonino was also on that team, who centered Vrbata’s line. Bonino also gained 15 goals that season.

Sure, Vrbata is having a poor season, but he scored 20 or more goals in three of his last four seasons. Putting him on a line with Bonino and Calle Jarnkrok could lead to a very interesting line.

No, it is not a top-six winger. But, Vrbata is another inexpensive rental that could prove important the rest of the season.

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