Last season, after making significant moves in free agency, the Nashville Predators might consider trading Jonathan Marchessault. According to Frank Seravalli on Daily Faceoff Live Wednesday, Marchessault is “open to the possibility of being traded this offseason,” with Montreal being his preferred destination, as he hails from Quebec.
Marchessault signed a five-year, $27.5 million deal with the Predators on July 1, 2024, after the Vegas Golden Knights chose not to re-sign him. He spent the majority of his career in Vegas, having been selected in the 2017 expansion draft from the Florida Panthers. Marchessault established himself as a key player for the Golden Knights, participating in 514 games, tallying 417 points, and winning the 2023 Stanley Cup along with the Conn Smythe Trophy.
When his contract ended after the 2023-24 season, Marchessault expressed a strong desire to remain in Vegas and finish his career there. “I did everything I could to stay here,” he told local media on May 15, 2024. However, Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon cited Marchessault’s contract length demands and his age as reasons for not re-signing him.
With the additions of Marchessault and Steven Stamkos in free agency, the Predators were viewed as preseason playoff favorites, but their offense failed to deliver consistently. Marchessault ended the season with 56 points in 78 games, down 13 points from the previous year, while Stamkos had 53 points in 82 games, 28 points shy of his prior season’s total. Nashville finished with a 30-44-8 record, placing sixth in the Central Division.
If the Predators trade Marchessault and clear his contract, it could free significant cap space, allowing them to pursue high-profile free agents on July 1. One of the most anticipated free agents this summer is Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner, who recently completed his six-year, $65.41 million contract.
Fan Take: This news is significant for hockey fans as it highlights the ongoing shake-up in NHL rosters and cap management strategies. Marchessault’s potential trade could reshape Nashville’s future, while the pursuit of stars like Mitch Marner promises an exciting free agency period that could impact the league’s competitive balance.
