It’s no secret that the Nashville Predators have had a disappointing start to the season. With a 5-9-2 record, they’re currently sitting at the bottom of the Central Division. However, GM Barry Trotz has made it clear that he believes this team is still a Stanley Cup contender and is willing to make moves to improve their chances. One rumor swirling around the league has the Predators targeting Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson.
The Potential Trade Matheson Trade
The speculated trade involves the Predators sending prospect Zachary L’Heureux and a 2025 first-round pick (originally belonging to the Vegas Golden Knights) to Montreal in exchange for Matheson. At first glance, this seems like a steep price for Nashville to pay. However, as any seasoned NHL follower knows, the cost of acquiring a top-pairing defenseman is sky-high in today’s market.
Matheson is undoubtedly a valuable asset. He’s a mobile, puck-moving defenseman who can log big minutes and contribute offensively. While some Habs fans have been critical of his play, it’s important to remember that the Canadiens are in a rebuilding phase. They have a young, rising star in Lane Hutson who many fans want to see quarterbacking the power play. This doesn’t diminish Matheson’s value.
Let’s be realistic – Matheson is worth considerably more than a single first-round pick. Remember the Ben Chiarot trade? Montreal received a first-rounder for him, and Matheson is a significantly better player. He’s a legitimate top-pairing offensive defenseman, a rare commodity in the NHL.
From Nashville’s perspective, this trade makes a lot of sense. They have the cap space to absorb Matheson’s contract and possess three first-round picks in the 2025 draft. Adding a player of Matheson’s caliber could be the boost they need to solidify their blue line and climb back into contention.
Of course, this is all speculation at this point. Whether or not this trade materializes remains to be seen. But it’s certainly a rumor worth keeping an eye on.
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matheson for provorov
I disagree with the value you assign to Matheson. He is a gifted offensive defenseman who is also a poor defender, and is only a 1st pair guy on a bottom team. I value him as a #4/5 defenseman who isn’t worth either a 1st round pick or an A prospect 1 for 1.