Nashville Predators Offseason Grades: Free Agency, Draft, Trades

Nashville Predators Trades: B+

Everything really took off this offseason when the Nashville Predators traded away our beloved Viktor Arvidsson. It was hard to stomach, but one that was necessary and wise by David Poile.

In return, the Predators received two draft picks, one in 2021 that ended up being used to trade with Carolina and move back into the first round to take L’Heureux. Hard to argue with what that pick allowed you to do.

The other pick acquired will be in 2022 in the third round. Stacking up draft capital is important, and the Predators would’ve likely lost Arvidsson for nothing in the expansion draft, so I think this was easily a smart trade by Poile.

The trade fireworks weren’t over as Ryan Ellis was then quickly traded, and shocked many people, including myself. Another move that hurt a lot of fans, but was necessary and a clear message that it’s time to rebuild with youth and development.

The return for Ellis was defenseman Philippe Myers and, eventually, center Cody Glass. Glass in particular has me intrigued as far as fueling the rebuild to see what he can become once given the opportunity.

I like both trades for the Predators, and when you factor in the draft day trade up to get L’Heureux, I give them a solid B+ for their trade activity this offseason.

It hasn’t been a complete fire-sale this offseason for the Predators, but they have definitely sent a clear message that change is necessary moving forward. I won’t be too surprised if Poile pulls off one more noteworthy addition as they have nearly $17M in projected cap space right now.

Overall it’s been a fairly successful offseason on its surface for what the Predators are trying to accomplish, but it also means we’re going to have to be patient before they return to being a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.