2: Move Away from Veterans to Open Space for Rookies
There are only 3 players on the Predators starting forward lineup that is below the age of 24 (Evangelista, L'Heureux, and Svechkov) and only one on the defensive lines. If Nashville wants to see more progression out of their prospects, they must first open up spots for them to play. The most obvious move would be trading away Ryan O'Reilly for picks and/or talent. This would open up the 2C position for either Svechkov or the 5th overall draftee.
Outside of the top six, Trotz could ship off Colton Sissons who is entering the final term of his 7-year contract. In terms of return, we'd be lucky to get anything over a 3rd round pick. However, parting ways with Sissons gives Nashville a much gift—space. With a spot open on the bottom-six, Head Coach Andrew Brunette would have enough space to slot in somebody like Joakim Kemell or Matthew Wood.
On the defensive side of things, trading away Jeremy Lauzon could land us some assets like a 2nd rounder. With him gone, Tanner Molendyk could join Nashville on the 3rd pair. If AHL development is what Trotz wants, Mols can always play in Milwaukee for bit and in the meantime, Spencer Stastney can join the Preds. All of these moves not only open up roster space physically, but also economically. Nashville would be able to clear up nearly $10 million in cap hits—it's a win-win.