Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues offseason rumors

The Nashville Predators wrapped up a disappointing 2025-26 season without playoffs, but head coach Andrew Brunette remains optimistic about his future with the team. Speaking after a season-ending loss to the San Jose Sharks, Brunette expressed confidence in continuing his role, even as the search for a new general manager progresses following Barry Trotz’s retirement.[1] Forward Jonathan Marchessault took accountability for his subpar performance, admitting a poor mindset impacted his play and the team’s chances.

Over in St. Louis, the Blues also missed the postseason, fueling speculation around several key players. General manager Doug Armstrong dismissed many trade rumors as exaggerated, while incoming GM Alexander Steen prepares to make critical decisions. With draft picks in hand and restricted free agents to sign, the Blues eye potential moves to bolster their roster.[2]

Nashville Predators assess season and leadership

Andrew Brunette’s post-season comments highlighted his commitment to the Predators. He stated, “I’m the coach here today and I’m proud of the work we’re doing. I’m looking forward to keep coaching until someone says you can’t coach anymore.”[1] This comes amid uncertainty with the GM position vacant since Trotz stepped down on February 2, 2026, to spend more time with family.

The Predators finished strong enough to flirt with playoff contention but fell short after 88 points in some projections. Brunette expects no drastic changes unless the new GM mandates them, emphasizing continuity in coaching staff.

Jonathan Marchessault’s self-reflection stood out during exit interviews. The forward, who signed with Nashville in 2024, posted just 31 points in 62 games. “I wasn’t the person that I usually am. And it ended up going against me,” he said, owning his lack of positivity.[1]

Marchessault further noted, “But I’m aware that if I play the way I played this year, I’m not going to bring any team to the playoffs. You’ve got to look at yourself in the mirror.” His candor could signal a bounce-back in 2026-27.

As detailed in Alex Daugherty’s Tennessean report, the focus now shifts to GM hiring. Earlier discussions on Predators stars like Steven Stamkos, covered in our NHL rumors roundup, underscore the need for stable leadership.

Trotz’s influence lingers, even symbolized by a Predators-themed tattoo. His guidance will aid the transition, setting the stage for offseason planning.

St. Louis Blues players shut down trade talk

Robert Thomas topped the rumor mill before the deadline, but Armstrong clarified the buzz as “a little bit of fabrication.” He values Thomas highly, saying, “The cost of acquiring someone of Robert Thomas’ talent is extremely high. I don’t think anyone values Robert Thomas more in the NHL than Doug Armstrong.”[2]

Defenseman Colton Parayko vetoed a trade to Buffalo and holds a full no-trade clause. Armstrong called him “foundational,” with future talks pending under Steen.

Goaltender Jordan Binnington, with a 14-team no-trade clause, appears safe. Armstrong stressed needing “two good goaltenders,” pairing him with Joel Hofer. Binnington expressed excitement for Steen’s vision.

Forward Jordan Kyrou, another full no-trade clause holder, wants to stay despite a down year. “I’ve loved my time here in St. Louis,” he said, with Armstrong viewing it as an aberration.[2]

Pending RFA Dylan Holloway seeks a long-term deal. “I want to be a Blue for a long time,” he noted, pending health proof over 82 games.

As Jeremy Rutherford outlined in The Athletic, the Blues hold picks at No. 11, 15, and 31 pre-lottery. Armstrong is open to trading up: “We can use the picks, prospects, players.”

Blues draft strategy and bigger picture

The Blues’ lottery odds offer slim chances at top picks, but Armstrong welcomes wheeling and dealing. Past trades netted promising prospects like Dalibor Dvorsky.

Steen inherits a mix of veterans and youth, with Armstrong’s plan intact: evolve without a full teardown. Conversations on Thomas, Parayko, and others loom large.

Early-season Blues struggles, like losing streaks detailed in our analysis, highlighted issues now addressed in exit interviews.

Goaltending tandem strength gives optimism, as Armstrong noted it carries teams through slumps.

Roster space created this year positions them well for free agency alongside the draft.

The offseason shapes up as methodical for St. Louis, balancing retention with targeted upgrades.

Both teams missed playoffs but showed resilience late. Predators’ coaching stability and Blues’ asset management point to contention pushes in 2026-27. Watch GM developments and draft results—they’ll dictate trajectories amid high expectations in the Central Division.