The churn of NHL trade rumors continues late into the night on Tuesday. Speculation is ramping up surrounding the Nashville Predators, particularly after the team completed a trade with the Minnesota Wild earlier in the day.
Chatter hit the roof early during the Predators’ game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Forward Cole Smith left the game after a brief shift, with teammates acknowledging his presence with stick taps.
The move fueled NHL trade rumors, however, Smith’s destination was unclear at the time.
Now, insider Frank Seravalli has added to the speculation by offering an insight into Cole’s potential destination. Seravalli indicated that Smith could be heading to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Smith was removed from tonight’s game after a three-second shift – and the pending UFA winger is awaiting word on a potential trade destination.
It’s uncertain if the Lightning will actually acquire Smith. Moreover, the potential return for the Predators’ fourth-liner is also a question mark.
Smith is another of Nashville’s impending UFAs, hence his name in NHL trade rumors. He’s in the second year of a two-year deal carrying a $1 million cap hit. At this point, Smith’s cap hit could be minuscule given the time remaining on his contract.
The 30-year-old has scored six goals and 10 points in 41 games this season. He has missed some time this season with an upper-body ailment. The University of North Dakota product has skated on the Predators’ third line, averaging between 11 and 12 minutes a night.
How Smith Fits into Lightning Lineup
The Lightning have a clear need for another healthy body in their bottom six. That’s why these NHL trade rumors make sense. The Bolts lined up 11 forwards and seven defensemen on Tuesday night in Minnesota.
As such, Smith would likely hit the fourth line with Conor Geekie and Scott Sabourin. Plus, Smith is a good fit given his role as a penalty killer. That’s something the Bolts could use a little more of down the stretch.
It’s also worth pointing out that Tampa Bay could use a little more grit, especially since its playoff path won’t be easy this season.
Predators Likely to Continue Making Noise in NHL Trade Rumors
The Predators will likely continue making noise in NHL trade rumors. The Preds are reportedly looking to move their impending UFAs despite hanging tough in the Western Conference playoff race.
The Predators lost some ground on Tuesday night by dropping a 3-2 decision to the Blue Jackets. Still, the Preds believe they have a shot at the playoffs, considering they’re about five points out of a postseason berth.
That situation could lead to even more NHL trade rumors, as the Preds might be looking to add. They got a second-round pick from the Minnesota Wild in the Michael McCarron trade. That’s something Nashville could flip for other pieces to bolster their playoff run.
What is interesting is that the biggest Nashville names rumored to go this season will likely stay put. The club may look into moving them down the line. But for now, the next name to keep an eye on is Erik Haula, who’s also one of the Preds’ impending UFAs this season.
Update: Following publication of this rumor, the Predators sent Smith to the Vegas Golden Knights for a third-round pick.
NHL Trade Rumors: Lightning Working on Deal with Predators