Nashville Predators Struggle Amid Trade Rumors and Coaching Questions

Nashville, TN — The Nashville Predators are facing a challenging start to the 2025-26 NHL season as they sit at the bottom of the Central Division, ranked 31st overall in the league. General Manager Barry Trotz is receiving calls from other teams looking to acquire veteran players as the team struggles with a record of just 6-11-4 after 21 games.

Trotz indicated that he is keeping communication open with agents and exploring potential trades but emphasizes that he still believes in the team’s current roster. ‘If we get this turned around, it’ll be fine,’ he told ESPN. ‘If we don’t, then maybe they want to say, ‘Hey, I’m getting a little older, I want another crack at it. Can we do something?’’

The Predators have struggled defensively, ranking dead last in the league by allowing 3.68 goals against per game and managing only 2.32 goals for per game. Following a recent 8-3 loss to the Florida Panthers, Coach Andrew Brunette acknowledged the team’s issues. ‘I think it falls on all of us. You rely on a good start. We’re just having a hard time grabbing it,’ he said.

This marks the second consecutive season that Nashville has stumbled out of the gate. Trotz, however, has publicly supported Brunette, indicating that he hasn’t considered replacing him at this time. ‘I believe in Bruno. That’s why I’ve been firm on that,’ Trotz stated.

Ryan O'Reilly, a central figure in trade discussions, expressed frustration over the team’s performance. ‘I should have just bit my tongue,’ O’Reilly said after acknowledging his poor play. He emphasized the need for focus on winning rather than worrying about trade rumors. Captains Roman Josi and Steven Stamkos also voiced their determination to improve, indicating that the trade chatter typically stems from underperformance.

Despite the tumult, there are signs of hope. Josi, who recently returned from injury, aims to boost the team’s offensive output. ‘We can turn this around. Hopefully by the deadline, we’ll be buying players and not selling,’ he said.

As the team navigates through tough challenges and growing trade speculation, the focus will be on whether they can rebound and unify under their current coaching staff moving forward.