With every loss the frustration of the Nashville Predators fan base grows. With Barry Trotz making social faux pauxs, Andrew Brunette losing whatever faith was left in him, and the team being flat out boring to watch. Watching the team is quickly becoming a chore for the fan base, and soon opposing fans and Nashville transplants will be the dominant voices in the Bridgestone Arena.
There needs to be a reason for fans of this team to stay engaged, and the they'll have to do a few things to make sure that the fans keep showing up.
The Coach Has Got To Go
It seems like an easy axe to fall, and Brunette is far from blameless for this team. However, this is the time when you are probably going to need to scapegoat your coach.
It will be difficult to do after Trotz publicly stated that he's "coaching his butt off" but there are two solutions which would raise some eyebrows among fans and get them tuned in for a bit.
Either Trotz can step in, which is fun because of his history and cache, or they can instantly promote Karl Taylor, the coach of the Predators AHL afilliate the Milwaukee Admirals. They are pereniall playoff contenders and more and more Admirals have been making their way into the Predators lineup. His connection with them, and giving him a half season defacto tryout would be reason enough to keep watching.
Please Cut The Fat Off The Roster
This isn't about making the major trades, this is about people who really don't need to be blocking spaces on the roster.
I don't like advocating for someone losing their job, but sometimes you've seen everything you need to see, so you might as well figure it out with someone else.
Exhibit A - Tyson Jost. Jost's career high points season came in 2018-19, and was to the tune of 26 points. He's on his 5th team, and has cleared waivers twice in the last two seasons to go down to the AHL. Sure, he's a 500 game NHLer, but we know that what he's bringing to the table isn't much, and it won't get fans in the building.
Fans want to see, and the GM and coaching staff need to see players like Zachary L'Heureux playing every day once he's back from injury, or give guys like Reid Schaefer, and Ryder Roloson a shot at NHL minutes.
Just Be Honest
This team is like a home falling apart in Nashville. That house isn't doing to get it done, but the land is worth it. This season is a tear down. Admit it, stockpile draft picks, consolidate your chances at a top 2 or 3 pick, and play as many kids as you can so you get a good look at who has NHL potential and who doesn't.
The hockey audience in Nashville has become very savvy and would more than appreciate the honest approach if it comes from management, as long as it comes soon.