In a recent segment on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio, Dave Pagnotta from The Fourth Period discussed the recent waiver claim of Dante Fabbro by the Columbus Blue Jackets and what it might indicate for the Nashville Predators. Interviewed by Gord Stellick and Scott Laughlin, Pagnotta addressed whether Fabbro’s departure could signal more significant changes to come for Nashville under the leadership of GM Barry Trotz. Stellick referenced that Trotz recently signed Fabbro to a one-year, $2.5 million deal, yet now placed him on waivers, hinting this might only be the beginning of a larger overhaul for the Predators.
Pagnotta commended Trotz’s transparency about the team’s recent struggles and his commitment to holding players accountable, rather than solely relying on coaching adjustments. He noted that Trotz has been candid about his intent to improve the team’s performance, actively seeking moves that will benefit Nashville and strategically managing roster changes. Pagnotta explained that, unlike in past years, when front offices might have been more hesitant to pursue “hockey trades” early in the season, Nashville’s situation could push them to make proactive changes, particularly given their available cap space following Fabbro’s departure.
Nashville’s financial situation is advantageous, with over $7 million in cap space, giving them flexibility to make impactful additions if necessary. This is a strong position compared to many other teams currently constrained by salary cap limitations, which limits trade flexibility and forces some teams to delay moves until the market improves. Trotz’s management of cap space may enable Nashville to pursue a high-value player, particularly a second-line center—a role they’ve reportedly been seeking to strengthen behind veteran Ryan O’Reilly. However, Pagnotta explained that while the cap space is a valuable asset, Nashville still faces challenges in structuring a beneficial deal, as teams are generally less inclined to make beneficial trades early in the season when they are focused on securing their own rosters.
Pagnotta added that Trotz’s decision to move Fabbro has opened a new chapter for the player, who has been involved in trade discussions for several years. For Nashville, the waiver move could signify that they are open to exploring new strategies and leveraging their cap space to make a strategic roster addition, either for immediate improvement or as a long-term investment. Pagnotta emphasized that in the current NHL, cap space is a significant advantage, allowing Nashville more flexibility than many other teams, and that Trotz’s awareness of this opportunity could lead to creative roster adjustments.
With Nashville’s cap space as a major asset, Pagnotta concluded that the Predators are financially well-positioned and should be expected to actively seek out potential deals. Whether it’s acquiring a playmaking center or addressing other gaps, Nashville appears to be positioning itself to improve upon its roster and performance, though the challenge will be finding a partner willing to engage in such a transaction. As Pagnotta highlighted, the Predators are setting the groundwork to make impactful moves if the right opportunity arises, given their favorable financial standing and Trotz’s forward-thinking management approach.
