Nashville Predators: Sorting through Predators trade rumors

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There are just over two weeks left between now and the NHL trade deadline. What are the latest trade rumors surrounding the Nashville Predators?

Make no mistake. The Nashville Predators are a legitimate favorite to come out of the Western Conference to play of Lord Stanley’s Cup. The roster is filled with talented players. It may be the most-complete roster in the NHL.

However, even the most complete roster can improve. For example, the 2016 Chicago Cubs were the odds-on favorite to win the World Series. Still, the backend of the bullpen needed stabilizing. The team went out and acquired Aroldis Champman. The rest is history.

If there is a weakness on the Predators it is their lack of scoring on 5v5 situations. They have improved. To start the season, the Predators ranked last in even-strength scoring. Now, they are tied at 19th in the league with 114 goals in these situations. That is the good news.

Thomas Vanek

Coming into the 2017-18 season, the Vancouver Canucks were picked to be towards the bottom of the Pacific Division. When the season started, however, they put up a great fight. At one point, they were in the top three in the division. But things did not stay that way.

With 48 points, the Canucks are nearly mathematically eliminated from the playoffs. Unless they go on a massive winning streak and everyone else losses seven straight, the odds are against Vancouver. And, with less than $1 million in cap space, it is time they sell.

According to Jason Botchford, who follows the Canucks, the Nashville Predators had interest in Thomas Vanek last summer. Of all the names being floated, Vanek leads in points with 37. Fifteen of those are goals, which compares well to Max Pacioretty and Evander Kane.

And, Vanek is far more affordable. His current contract is a one-year deal for $2 million. He is a free agent after this year, and at 34 years old, may not cost much should the Predators wish to sign him again.

Adding Vanek may be the best way to go. The rental will be inexpensive. Vanek may be willing to take on a third-line role with the Predators. Adding a player with 15 goals on a back line is not a bad option.

(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.

(Photo by John Russell/NHLI via Getty Images) /

Rick Nash

It is clear the New York Rangers intend to ship Rick Nash off this season. Sure, his massive salary will come off the books this offseason, but Rangers are rebuilding. Gaining a few young players in return is better than losing Nash and getting nothing in return.

Nash is the highest priced free agent coming off the Rangers’ ledger. They have five unrestricted free agent forwards alone. Not to mention three restricted free agents. Trading Nash is the team’s best way to receive talent in return due to his performance and contract.

Earlier this week, I wrote a post discussing the possibility of the Nashville Predators obtaining Nash. It appears the price for Nash would be steep. Do the Predators have what it takes to swing such a deal? Yes. Should they? Depends.

Now, Darren Dreger is saying the Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators are the two top contenders for Nash’s services. If that is the case, I hope the Predators pursue him. Getting a top scoring option and keeping them from another team truly in contention is worthy of consideration. There may be 10 other teams on the list, but the depth of Dallas would be scary good with Nash.

My only hesitation is affording Nash long-term.

(Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NHLI via Getty Images) /

Patrick Maroon

I almost feel bad for the Edmonton Oilers. They have a generational player in Connor McDavid and nowhere near contending for the playoffs. They were a favorite to win the Stanley Cup before the season started. Once the puck dropped, they failed to live up to expectations.

McDavid is signed long-term. Very long-term. They are not hurting for cap space and have three forwards who will be unrestricted free agents once the season is over. One of those is Patrick Maroon.

Now, Maroon is not having the season he did last year. Still, 13 goals and 14 assists are not bad. The 29-year old winger can put up 20 or more goals annually. Those aspects combined means Maroon could ask for a big contract this offseason. Some say that even with $20 million in cap space, the Oilers may not afford Maroon.

But, with just under $500,000 left on his deal this season, Maroon is a very affordable option for a team looking for a top-six winger. Enter the Nashville Predators.

Next: Five Thoughts For Friday, February 9th

Parting ways with a draft pick or a young NHL-ready player is easier to swallow than the large price for other players. Maroon ranks well among top-six wingers in points, and his contract is affordable. With room to spend next season, Maroon may be a nice player to add long-term.

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