NHL: Los Angeles Kings at Nashville Predators - Source: Imagn — Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz eyeing trade for Alexandre Carrier to strengthen center position (Source: Imagn)

NHL rumors: Top insider reports $11,250,000 Nashville Predators' D-man is trade fodder in hunt for center

Modified Nov 15, 2024 07:26 GMT

NHL Insider Frank Seravalli reported that Nashville Predators' defenseman Alexandre Carrier could be traded. General manager Barry Trotz is looking to add a center to the team, and Carrier could help make that happen. He signed a three-year, $11.25 million contract in July, but Trotz may move him to improve the center position.

Carrier, 28, had a strong 2023-24 season with 20 points (four goals, 16 assists). He blocked 137 shots and scored his first career shorthanded goal. He was key for the Predators in their playoff series against the Vancouver Canucks, scoring the game-winner in Game 5. Despite these achievements, Trotz may trade him as part of roster changes.

"I'm told that Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz has examined the center market quite extensively to this point. No secret that the Predators need to add a center to that group, ... I'm told that Alex Carrier, the defenseman in the first year of a three year times $3.75 million deal, has been a name that's been talked about," Seravalli said.

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Carrier's contract and solid defensive play make him an attractive trade option for teams needing a defenseman. Nashville is focused on adding a center, a position that has been a weak spot in recent years.

Carrier’s time in Nashville has been successful, but the team is shifting towards a more balanced roster. Trotz is reportedly considering both short- and long-term improvements, with a center being a top priority.

Nashville Predators loses 3-2 to Edmonton Oilers despite early lead

The Nashville Predators lost 3-2 in overtime to the Edmonton Oilers. Nashville took a 1-0 lead in the first period when Michael McCarron redirected Roman Josi’s shot past Calvin Pickard. In the second, McDavid scored his 1,000th career point to tie the game 1-1. Nurse then put Edmonton ahead 2-1 with a top-shelf shot.

The Predators came back in the third period. Cole Smith scored on a breakaway to make it 2-2 and force overtime. However, in overtime, McDavid assisted Nurse on the game-winning goal.

Predators coach Andrew Brunette said the team struggled in the second period but fought back well in the third.

“I liked the way we battled back and gave us an opportunity to get a point,” Brunette said per NHL.com

The Predators will play the Calgary Flames next on November 15. The game will start at 8:00 PM CST.