Nashville Predators Enhance Draft Assets for 2027
The Nashville Predators are set to enhance their draft assets for 2027 by converting a previously acquired third-round pick into a second-round selection. This upgrade is a direct result of the Vegas Golden Knights’ triumphant 5-1 win against the Anaheim Ducks in Game 6 of their playoff series, which means the Knights are advancing to the Western Conference Finals to take on the Colorado Avalanche.
Trade Background
Back in June 2025, Nashville engaged in a trade with Vegas involving Colton Sissions and Jeremy Lauzon, which brought Nic Hague and the then-conditional 2027 third-round pick to the Predators. In that trade, an essential condition was that if the Golden Knights progressed to the second round of the playoffs twice in 2026, this pick would elevate to a second-round status—and with their recent victory, that condition has been met.
Draft Strategy and Future Picks
As it stands, Nashville’s draft strategy is looking strong, with a total of 12 selections slated for the 2027 NHL Draft. This assortment includes:
- 1 first-round pick
- 2 second-round picks
- 3 third-round picks
- 2 fourth-round picks
- 2 fifth-round picks
- 1 sixth-round pick
- 1 seventh-round pick
Furthermore, the Predators have a strong set of picks for the upcoming 2026 draft, highlighted by the 10th overall pick. This expansion of draft choices follows a busy two years for Nashville, during which they notably signed Jonathan Marchessault—who won the 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy—as part of their 2024 offseason strategy. During the 2026 trading deadline, Nashville added to their roster by sending Cole Smith to the Golden Knights, securing a 2028 third-round pick along with defenseman Christoffer Sedoff.
Player Performance
In terms of player performance, Hague had a solid debut season for Nashville, contributing 15 points across 62 games. In contrast, Marchessault’s output has seen a significant downturn, notably scoring a career-low 31 points in the same number of games. As for Sedoff, his impact has been minimal thus far, failing to record any points in 12 games with the Milwaukee Admirals and participating in just one of their three playoff matches.
