“You’re not trading Roman Josi”: Elliotte Friedman makes his feelings crystal clear on Barry Trotz’s comments around Predators' rebuild

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Nov 08, 2024 21:37 GMT

On the November 8 episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Elliotte Friedman talked about Barry Trotz’s recent comments on the Nashville Predators.

Trotz, the Predators’ general manager, spoke honestly about the team’s disappointing start this season. He admitted concerns and hinted at possible changes if things don’t improve.

Friedman explained that Trotz is frustrated but also cautious about a full rebuild.

"If you listen to the whole interview, he's not talking about it (rebuild). And the other thing too is, like, look at the roster. Look who’s signed on in goal. Saros is newly signed for a long time. On defense, you're not trading Roman Josi, and his defense partner, Brady Skjei, just got signed for a long time." (26:05)

Barry Trotz’s frustration comes from Nashville’s slow 4-9-1 start, placing them at the bottom of the Central Division.

After an offseason of big signings with players like Jonathan Marchessault (five-year) and Steven Stamkos (four-year), fans expected much better. But things have not worked out for Nashville and the offseason acquisitions are not yielding results on the standings.

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Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz's statement

Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz, on November 5, discussed the team’s slow start and the possibility of changes.

Trotz explained that he doesn’t plan on a full rebuild. Instead, he aims to keep the team competitive while developing young talent. Since taking over in 2023, Trotz’s plan has been to build a roster with a mix of experienced players and young prospects.

"I've tried to buy time through free agency with these older players, so that we can still be a threat," Trotz said per Tennessean. "But if it doesn't work, I've still got to buy the time for those young players."

Trotz mentioned that the future core includes young players like Tanner Molendyk, Joakim Kemell, and Matthew Wood, though they still need time to grow.

Trotz said he may start replacing certain players with younger prospects if the team doesn’t improve soon. Veterans like Filip Forsberg, Roman Josi, Ryan O’Reilly and Juuse Saros will stay, as they form the team’s stable core.

A major area of concern is the second line, where several players have rotated at center without success.

"If we don't find that (2nd line center) then maybe we start the process of letting some of those kids come up and play with Stamkos at center," Trotz said per Tennessean. "Maybe Reid Schaefer or (Zachary) L'Heureux or (Joakim) Kemell has to go in that wing spot."

Barry Trotz aims to balance the team’s future and present without a lengthy rebuild.