Roman Josi

Roman Josi’s hat trick gives Nashville something to smile about, but that’s only part of the story around this club right now. The bigger intrigue sits in the front office, where the GM search keeps moving and a new name has apparently entered the conversation. For a team that loves to keep things just vague enough to make everyone sweat, this is the kind of day that has scouts, agents, and fans reading between the lines.

Roman Josi, Justus Annunen, and Ryan O'Reilly are giving the Predators something to smile about at the World Championships. When players look sharp on a stage like that, teams take notice, even if the tournament is not played under NHL lights. The kind of performances Nashville is getting here can help build confidence, reputation, and a little summer buzz back home. For a club that wants more answers than questions, these reps matter.

Nashville sits at pick 10 in the 2026 NHL Draft, and whispers from Bridgestone Arena suggest they're zeroing in on a defenseman to shore up the blue line. GM Barry Trotz has been scouting juniors and Euro leagues hard, knowing the Preds' defensive depth took hits in free agency last summer. With Roman Josi aging into his mid-30s, this selection carries real weight for their Cup window.