NHL Rumors: Predators GM Search Starting to Narrow

The Nashville Predators look like they’re finally narrowing down their candidates to be their next general manager.

After weeks of conversations with a wide range of candidates, the sense coming out of the NHL’s general managers meetings is that Nashville is getting closer to trimming the field for Barry Trotz’s replacement. 

Trotz already said the organization cast a “wide net” and plans to reduce the candidate pool soon, while Elliotte Friedman reported the Predators could cut the list and really dig in as early as next week.

Predators GM search begins to take shape

That does not mean Nashville has a true favorite yet, but some names are clearly in the mix. 

Friedman reported that Sabres associate GM Marc Bergevin and Florida Panthers assistant GM Brett Peterson have been part of the initial interview process, which gives the Predators two very different profiles to consider. 

Nice to finally see some names mentioned (marc bergevin, yuck), but brett peterson from the panthers at least feels like he should be an interesting name. Impossible to know what AGMs are good or bad, but hard to argue with the panthers recent success https://t.co/xYbP9K4yLo pic.twitter.com/LTxGVyO8Wh

— ryan (@AngryPredsFan) March 19, 2026

Bergevin brings the former-GM track record after nine seasons running the Montreal Canadiens, a stretch that included six playoff appearances and a trip to the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. 

Peterson, meanwhile, fits the rising-executive mold and has been part of Florida’s front office since 2020 during a run that included three straight Stanley Cup Final appearances.

Barry Trotz and Nashville appear ready to cut the list

Friedman said the Predators have spoken with all kinds of people, from former general managers to younger up-and-comers, and even bigger-picture names such as Brendan Shanahan have come up in the conversation. 

Separate reporting tied Shanahan and Chris Pronger to the process as possible options, though it remains unclear who has moved beyond exploratory talks and into the true short-list category. 

Friedman also cautioned that not every conversation should be viewed as a formal interview. Some have simply been early-stage meetings as the Predators and ownership group work through what type of leader they want next.

Barry Trotz is stepping down as GM of the Nashville Predators, per @FriedgeHNIC.

He will remain in the role until a successor is found. pic.twitter.com/mMzJsjVvCU

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 2, 2026

Trotz announced on February 2 that he would retire as general manager once a successor is chosen, but he is staying on through the process and will help ownership with the final selection. 

That setup has allowed the Predators to be patient, but patience only lasts so long once the season gets close to ending and front-office planning for the summer starts staring everyone in the face.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images