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Predators 'Lining Up Potential Deals' In 180-Degree Strategy Turn: Report

By Antonio Losada
From The Sacramento Bee

Predators 'Lining Up Potential Deals' In 180-Degree Strategy Turn: Report

Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz is making a bold, 180-degree turn in his team-building strategy.

Just weeks after claiming the franchise was thinking about transitioning into rebuilding, it looks like Trotz is now ready to make a push for the postseason by acquiring impactful players.

Despite the Predators sitting at the bottom of the standings, Trotz is looking to add key pieces rather than sell assets, signaling a commitment to building a competitive roster for the near and long-term future.

According to The Hockey Writers' Emma Lingan, Trotz is focused on acquiring players who can help the team beyond this season.

"PER SOURCE: #Preds Barry Trotz is lining up potential deal(s) for January. Buying, not selling," Lingan reported on X on Friday. "NHL holiday roster freeze kicked in at midnight, meaning no moves can be made until Dec. 28.

"That doesn't mean Trotz & other GMs aren't working behind the scenes."

Trotz's proactive stance comes after a transformative offseason that brought stars like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault to Nashville in splashy free-agency moves.

While the team's early-season struggles hinted at a potential rebuild, a recent turnaround-highlighted by a 4-2 stretch before a loss to the Los Angeles Kings-has seemingly reignited Trotz's confidence in retooling rather than tearing down.

The Predators are still the worst team in the NHL with a 9-17-7 record and 25 total points and separated 13 points from the second wild-card berth in the Western Conference.

Clearing cap space has been a critical part of Trotz's plan, as the general manager told reporters following the recent trade of defenseman Alexandre Carrier to Montreal.

The move freed up over $2 million and demonstrated the team's strategy to recalibrate without dismantling the team.

"Don't be surprised," Trotz said, per Lingan, "if there's the right piece, I'm going to add it."

Related: Predators GM Hints at Rebuild After Horrible Start to Season

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