The Nashville Predators are at a bit of a crossroads. After a busy offseason that saw them bring in some big-name veterans, the results haven’t quite matched the investment-at least not in the standings.
Now, with the calendar inching toward midseason and the playoff picture beginning to take shape, Nashville is reportedly open to shaking things up. That means moving some of their pricier veterans in hopes of getting younger, more flexible under the salary cap, and better positioned for the future.
Among the names drawing interest: Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. Both carry full no-movement clauses, which complicates things, but they’re not the only players potentially on the move. According to recent reporting, the Predators are also willing to listen on Ryan O’Reilly, Erik Haula, Michael McCarron, and notably, Michael Bunting.
Bunting’s situation is particularly intriguing. He’s on an expiring deal and set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
That makes him a logical trade chip for a team looking to retool on the fly. And with Toronto reportedly scouting Nashville games recently, the idea of a reunion between Bunting and the Maple Leafs is starting to gain traction.
Could Bunting Be Headed Back to Toronto?
Toronto had eyes on the Nov. 28 game between the Predators and Blackhawks. While initial speculation centered around Chicago’s roster, the fact that Bunting is available throws a new wrinkle into the mix.
He spent two productive seasons in Toronto, putting up 112 points in 161 games and developing strong chemistry with Auston Matthews. That kind of familiarity matters, especially for a team looking to fine-tune its top-six forward group for a deep playoff run.
From Nashville’s perspective, the ask likely starts with a young, NHL-ready player or a mid-round draft pick. They’re trying to get younger and cheaper, and Bunting’s expiring contract gives them flexibility.
For Toronto, a roster-for-roster swap could involve someone like Matias Maccelli-who fits the age profile and could benefit from a bigger role in Nashville. A deal like that would probably require a sweetener, maybe a third-round pick in 2026 or 2027, to get the conversation moving.
What Would Bunting Bring Back to Toronto?
Let’s be clear: Bunting isn’t a cure-all. He’s not a puck-moving defenseman, and Toronto still needs help on the back end-particularly someone who can transition the puck and drive offense from the blue line. But as a forward, he checks a lot of boxes.
He brings grit, solid possession numbers, and a proven ability to produce alongside elite talent. Slotting him back in with Matthews and Matthew Knies could give Toronto a line that blends scoring touch, playmaking, and a bit of edge-something that’s often missing in the postseason.
At 30, Bunting still fits Toronto’s win-now window. He’s not a long-term project, but he’s not a pure rental either.
If the Leafs like what they see down the stretch, there’s a path to re-signing him. And while he’s not the most physical player out there, he plays with enough bite to make his presence felt in tough games.
The tradeoff? Toronto would be giving up some creativity and speed if they move a player like Maccelli. That’s the gamble-swapping potential for a more battle-tested option who’s shown he can handle the heat of playoff hockey.
Why This Matters for Both Sides
For Nashville, moving Bunting and others on expiring deals is about setting the stage for what’s next. They’ve got veterans with name recognition and playoff experience, but if the current mix isn’t working, it makes sense to pivot now rather than wait until the offseason.
For Toronto, this is about maximizing the present. The core is in its prime.
Matthews is playing like an MVP. The window is open.
Bringing back a player who already knows the system, the locker room, and the expectations could be a low-risk, high-reward move-especially if the price is manageable.
No deal is imminent, and a lot can change between now and the trade deadline. But if Toronto is serious about making a run-and Nashville is serious about retooling-then a Michael Bunting reunion might be more than just a nostalgic idea. It could be the kind of move that gives both teams exactly what they need.