Nashville Predators: Five Hypothetical Trades to Entertain this Offseason
By Rich Howe
Ryan Graves
Position: Defense
Current Team: Colorado Avalanche
2020 Salary Cap Hit: $735,000
Ryan Graves is another young, restricted free agent that could definitely be in the Predators’ wheelhouse next season.
Last season, Graves racked up 26 points (9 goals, 17 assists). He also had three points in the Edmonton playoff bubble.
The Avalanche have 12 players that are free agents this season, including Graves. This may put them in a position to make some deals. This is a team that has high hopes for a Stanley Cup in the near future.
Like Dunn was mentioned earlier, Graves would make an excellent partner for Ekholm on the second defensive pairing. This move would also work for the Fabbro move to the third pairing.
Like Dunn, Graves will also be looking for a raise from his current contract. After the free agents are gone, the Predators could absorb a deal for Graves.
I’m doubtful that Colorado would take some picks for Graves as they aren’t as cash-strapped as St. Louis. Maybe they would be interested in bolstering their third or fourth lines with say, Calle Jarnkrok, and a later round pick.
The Predators could use help on the defensive front. After Roman Josi, Ryan Ellis, and Ekholm, things get dicey. Graves could step right into that role and provide some offense that they are lacking.