Colorado Avalanche & Nashville Predators Complete Trade

Wednesday, March 04, 2026 ,
Nashville Predators defenseman Nick Blankenburg shoots the puck during 2025 game.

The Colorado Avalanche have made a depth move on the blue line ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring defenseman Nick Blankenburg from the Nashville Predators. 

In return, Colorado is sending Nashville a fifth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft as the Western Conference powerhouse continues to fine-tune its roster for a playoff run.

Avalanche add Nick Blankenburg to strengthen blue line depth

Blankenburg, 27, is enjoying the most productive season of his NHL career, recording six goals and 15 assists for 21 points in 49 games with the Predators. 

The right-shot defenseman has also averaged nearly 18 minutes of ice time per game this season, proving capable of handling steady minutes in a two-way role. 

His offensive totals ranked near the top among Nashville defensemen, and three of his goals came on the power play during a strong stretch in November.

Across his NHL career with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Predators, Blankenburg has appeared in 164 games, totaling 16 goals and 39 assists for 55 points while averaging over 18 minutes per night. 

Originally signed by Columbus as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Michigan in 2022, the 5-foot-9 defender has carved out a reputation as a hard-working, mobile blueliner capable of contributing in multiple situations.

Predators collect draft capital in Nick Blankenburg trade

For the Predators, the move continues a busy week of deadline activity as general manager Barry Trotz stockpiles draft assets. 

Blankenburg was in the second year of a two-year deal carrying a $775,000 cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Colorado, meanwhile, adds another experienced option to an already deep defensive group as it prepares for the postseason. 

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

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