The Nashville Predators announced that the organization has made a trade with the New Jersey Devils. The Predators traded away defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and 2025 4th round pick in exchange for former Nashville centerman Erik Haula. The 34-year-old played 54 games with the Predators in the 2020-21 season. He registered 21 points, consisting of 9 goals and 12 assists.
The trade leaves Nashville with one less draft selection this year and also takes away an AHL d-man in Hanzel. Despite trying to get younger, Predators General Manager Barry Trotz decided that it was in his best interest to secure another veteran forward for the lineup. However, when looking past the first page, the trade makes a lot more sense.
There Isn't Much to Lose with Haula in the Long Run
Haula will join Nashville on a deal set to expire at the end of next season. With an annual cap hit of $3.15 million, fans don't have to worry about the team taking on another terrible, long-term contract. The team could trade him in the future if they wanted to since he has a M-NTC, giving even more freedom to us. After the move, the Predators have a bit over $14 million in cap space, leaving plenty for free agency and other moves.
A huge plus with acquiring Haula is his versatility, playing both the center and the wing. Trotz told the media that "We are confident that he'll be able to play alongside our young players, helping to a accelerate their development." Even though Haula is up there in age, Trotz believes that his presence and willingness to switch positions will assist in growing a much more skilled youth group in Nashville.
Since departing from Nashville in free agency in 2021, the Finland native tallied 141 points in 303 for just under half a point a game on average. He has shown some regression since his 44-point season with the Boston Bruins in 2021, but he is just as reliable now as he was then. Since 2021, Haula ranks 56th in faceoff win percentage among forwards with 53.9%. Faceoffs play a huge factor in who takes the offensive advantage and with Haula, the Predators have some confidence in striking first.
Sure, Haula isn't necessarily the guy we need right now but considering that he really isn't doing any harm, this trade works out alright. At the end of the day, we have someone to boost our offense and help grow the youngsters on the lineup like Fedor Svechkov and Luke Evangelista. Nashville should be pretty pumped about welcoming back Haula, especially with the little we had to give up for him.