Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz hints that a rebuild could be on the way after disappointing start

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Tom Banks
November 6, 2024 (7:08 PM)

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The Nashville Predators spent big this past off-season, but now it appears Barry Trotz may have a rebuild on his mind after a slow start to the year.

This past off-season, the Nashville Predators loaded up with talent, adding Steven Stamkos, Brady Skjei, and Jonathan Marchessault, making them Stanley Cup contenders in the eyes of most fans heading into 2024/25. Through 12 games this season, the Predators sit at 4-7-1, placing them dead last in the Central Division, and now, GM Barry Trotz has made a shocking statement on the future of the team as it is presently constructed.

".....if we don't get it going, then I'm going to start our rebuild plan."

On top of those three free agency moves, the team locked up goaltender Juuse Saros after adding the likes of Ryan O'Reilly to add to a core that also has Filip Forsberg and Roman Josi, making their start to the year the biggest disappointment in the NHL. While Trotz didn't go into detail on what a rebuilding plan would look like in Nashville, but with so much veteran talent, if they do decide to sell at the trade deadline, they could arm themselves with a wealth of future assets if they play their hand properly.

With 12 games down, the Predators still have 70 games to turn things around, and after last year's improbable run started late in the season, it's way too early to hit the panic button. In their last 7 games, the Predators sit at 4-2-1, showing that once they continue building their chemistry, this could be a team that has Stanley Cup ambition and skill after all.

Just a few weeks ago, it was reported that Trotz was eyeing a big time trade to add to this team, making them one of the most intriguing teams in the entire league this season, as they could either sell or become buyers and push for a Stanley Cup, but after a slow start, they have to start playing consistently before that becomes a more serious conversation.