Predators GM Search Hits a Snag, NHLPA Reviewing CAA’s Involvement
The Nashville Predators are officially in the market for a new general manager after Barry Trotz’s unexpected resignation announcement earlier this week. But as the franchise begins its search, a wrinkle has emerged that could complicate the process.
Creative Artists Agency (CAA), the firm hired by the Predators to lead their GM search, is now under review by the NHL Players Association. The issue?
CAA represents a significant number of NHL players-including some of the league’s biggest stars and even Nashville’s own Filip Forsberg. That overlap is raising eyebrows, as the NHLPA looks into whether the agency’s involvement in front office hiring could present a conflict of interest.
According to insider Frank Seravalli, the concern lies in whether any part of CAA, even a separate division, should be involved in executive recruitment when the agency also negotiates player contracts. CAA’s client list includes the likes of Sidney Crosby and a host of other top-tier talent, which only adds to the scrutiny.
This isn’t the first time a situation like this has come up. Back in 2023, the NHLPA examined Kyle Dubas’ ties to an agency connected to Auston Matthews and other players during his transition from Toronto to Pittsburgh. That investigation didn’t result in any violations, but it set a precedent that makes the current review worth watching.
For now, Trotz remains in place and is expected to continue steering the ship through the upcoming Trade Deadline. That’s no small task. Nashville is hovering around the Wild Card conversation, and the front office has some tough decisions to make-whether to sell off assets or double down for a playoff push.
According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, Trotz had a few trade discussions in motion this week that ultimately didn’t materialize. Those talks could be revisited after the Olympic break, and with Trotz nearing the end of his tenure, don’t be surprised if he looks to make a few bold moves to set up the next GM with a strong foundation.
Around the League:
Panthers’ Vilmanis Leaves Game After Controversial Hit
In Florida, forward Sandis Vilmanis exited mid-game with an upper-body injury following a hit that’s already generating buzz around the league. Vilmanis delivered a high shot to Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy-making clear contact with the head. McAvoy, who’s still wearing a full shield as he recovers from a broken jaw, stayed in the game, but Vilmanis was assessed just a minor penalty and did not return.
The 22-year-old Latvian winger has just 12 NHL games to his name, but his Olympic nod for Latvia puts his status under a bigger spotlight. With the Milan Games approaching, any injury-and any potential supplemental discipline-could have implications for both the Panthers and his national team.
Kraken’s Schwartz Sidelined Again
In Seattle, the Kraken will be without Jaden Schwartz for tonight’s matchup in Los Angeles. The veteran forward is dealing with a lower-body injury-the same kind that’s already cost him time this season. While the team hasn’t confirmed whether it’s a recurrence, there’s reason to be cautious.
Schwartz, 33, has tallied 19 points in 36 games this season, continuing to be a steady contributor when healthy. But availability has been a recurring issue throughout his Kraken tenure. With Seattle eyeing a playoff spot and actively exploring trade options, the hope is that Schwartz can use the Olympic break to get right and rejoin the lineup for the stretch run.
As the league barrels toward the Trade Deadline and the Olympic break, front offices are juggling roster decisions, injury management, and-at least in Nashville’s case-executive turnover. The next few weeks could shape the rest of the season in more ways than one.