Predators in Crisis: Will They Be Able to Resurge in the NHL? Analysis and Rumors

Predators in Crisis: Trotz Evaluates the Future Amid Calls and Rumors

The atmosphere in Nashville is tense. Barry Trotz, the Predators’ general manager, hears the buzz of vultures, represented by calls from other NHL general managers interested in his veteran players. The Predators’ season has started disastrously, and questions about the team’s future are inevitable.

“You hear this from a lot of teams: ‘We’re looking for a top-six forward.’ You know, I have a couple of top-six players,” Trotz said. “I’ve talked to their agents. I just want to get a feel for [things]. If we can make this change, that’ll be fine. If not, then maybe they want to say, ‘Hey, I’m getting a little older, I want another opportunity. Can we do something?'”

Barry Trotz

The Predators are in last place in the NHL in terms of points percentage (.364). In addition, they are ranked 30th in team defense (3.68 goals against per game) and last in goals per game (2.32). The most recent defeat, an overwhelming 8-3 against the Florida Panthers, was just the latest chapter in a series of adverse results, with eight losses in nine games. Coach Andrew Brunette attributed the loss to an “11-second” lapse, the time it took Florida to take the lead. Nashville, unfortunately, is accustomed to difficult starts. This is the second consecutive season with a calamitous start under Brunette. Last season, the team had a 7-11-3 record after 21 games; this season, the record is 6-11-4. Despite the situation, Trotz has made it clear that they are not “open to negotiations”, at least for now. The calls he receives are more exploratory than anything else, especially in relation to possible trade targets like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, who have “no-movement” clauses. The general manager revealed that these calls are more to keep them in consideration for possible deals. Trotz noted that the next “seven or eight games will be a good indicator” to determine if it’s time to have difficult conversations with veteran players or if there is still hope for the Nashville season. This translates to the second week of December. Center Ryan O’Reilly, another possible trade target, emphasized the importance of focusing on the current game and regaining momentum. Regarding the possibility of a coaching change, Trotz has expressed his confidence in Brunette. He hired Brunette in 2023, recognizing his offensive ability. However, after Nashville finished tenth in scoring during Brunette’s first season (3.24 goals per game), the Predators rank 32nd in offense over the last two combined seasons. Trotz has defended Brunette for the last two seasons, pointing out that he needs “more” from his star players. In addition, he has highlighted that the players have not given up and are working hard.

Title of the publication: Steven Stamkos’ Nashville tenure has not gone as well as hoped.Despite the current situation, Trotz has not been driven to consider replacing Brunette. His focus is based on the belief in the Predators’ effort, despite the lack of results. He highlighted that the players have not given up and continue to work hard. Instead of blaming the coaching staff, Trotz has put the responsibility for changing the season in the hands of the players. After a loss against the Philadelphia Flyers earlier this month, Ryan O’Reilly expressed his frustration. O’Reilly regretted his reaction, acknowledging that it had not been the best way to address the situation.

0:42Greg Wyshynski: Ryan O’Reilly not focused on trade rumors.Captain Roman Josi recalled O’Reilly’s outstanding 2018-19 season, when he won the Conn Smythe and the Selke Trophy. Both Josi and defenseman Brady Skjei have supported O’Reilly, highlighting his value to the team. O’Reilly, 34, was signed by Trotz in the summer of 2023 with a four-year, $18 million contract. Skjei, Marchessault, and Stamkos joined the team in the following offseason. Trotz, believes that the team’s effort and execution have improved compared to the previous season.

Title of the publication: Like many of his teammates, Ryan O’Reilly has struggled this season — but not due to a lack of effort.The lack of offense, especially from the players hired to provide it, has been a constant. Stamkos, with a goal in his first 14 games, has been one of those who have struggled the most. Stamkos, although he has heard trade rumors, considers them speculation. Both Marchessault and Stamkos have no-movement clauses, but their names have appeared in trade rumors. Josi, who recently returned after an injury, believes the team can turn the situation around. The hope is to keep trade rumors out of the locker room and, hopefully, strengthen the team instead of selling players.