NHL Draft and Current Challenges
On June 28, 2023, during the first round of the NHL Draft held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, fans witnessed Tanner Molendyk greet new general manager Barry Trotz after being selected as the 24th pick. Currently, the Nashville Predators are under intense scrutiny as they navigate a challenging six-day break following their recent trip to Stockholm, Sweden, leading many to speculate about potential coaching changes or roster adjustments.
Conversations and Insights
In a recent informal conversation hosted by the NHL and shared on YouTube, Trotz engaged with Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas at the 2025 NHL Global Series. Over a leisurely coffee chat, the two executives exchanged insights about their respective teams’ circumstances, though Trotz refrained from making any groundbreaking announcements regarding forthcoming changes for the Predators.
Transitioning Phase
When discussing the Predators’ youth movement, Trotz sidestepped the term “rebuild,” opting instead to frame the current period as a transitional phase. “I don’t want to say we’re in a rebuild,” Trotz explained. “It’s more of a build. We have experienced players who can keep us competitive for now, alongside younger talents we need to nurture.”
This assertion belies the frustration stemming from the Predators’ subpar start to the 2025-26 season; with a record of 6-10-4, they currently sit at the bottom of the Central Division, having managed just 16 points. Following a split series with the Penguins, Trotz acknowledged a dearth of playmaking talent in his lineup. He humorously noted, “I don’t have enough playmakers. Could you lend me Sid (Sidney Crosby) or (Evgeni) Malkin for a bit? I think they could help us be more productive.” This reveals a pressing concern, as the Predators rank last in the league for goals scored, netting only 48.
Comparative Performance
In contrast, the Penguins are enjoying a more favorable season with a 10-5-4 record, placing them in third position within the Metropolitan Division, bolstered by veteran stars Crosby and Malkin, who lead their team in scoring. Trotz openly reflected on the difficulties of infusing youth into a veteran-laden squad, a challenge both he and Dubas are currently facing.
“Balancing the transition of bringing in new talent while relying on seasoned players is tricky,” Trotz admitted, emphasizing that after years in playoff contention, the Predators now find their shelves nearly bare and are working to refill them while grappling with the necessity of patience during this development phase.
Coaching Dynamics
Trotz also shared his sentiments regarding the coaching role, expressing nostalgia for the immediacy and influence of being on the bench. “There’s a certain game-day energy I miss, especially being that close to the players and making rapid decisions,” he said.
Amid these discussions, rumors about potential trades involving veteran players and a coaching shake-up, particularly concerning Andrew Brunette, are prevalent. Trotz has previously spoken highly of Brunette, affirming the organization’s support for him, yet the team’s dismal start may prompt reevaluation of this stance.
Future Considerations
Should Trotz opt for a coaching change, questions arise about whether he would take on coaching duties himself while continuing as general manager, a dual role that would undoubtedly present challenges. More realistically, an interim coach might be appointed, potentially someone from the Milwaukee Admirals or an internal staff member.
The situation in Nashville remains complex, and with pressing issues concerning player performance and coaching direction, it is evident that the Predators require immediate action to address their struggles. Ultimately, Trotz understands that the current trajectory is unsustainable, suggesting substantial moves—whether through trades or coaching adjustments—are on the horizon.
