The Nashville Predators are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a revamped defensive lineup featuring new acquisitions Nicolas Hague and Nick Perbix. General Manager Barry Trotz has prioritized strengthening the defense after last season's struggles, including injuries to key players like Roman Josi and trades that left half the defense in flux.

Hague, 26, and Perbix, 27, both stand over 6-foot-4 and are regarded as defensive specialists. They are expected to take significant roles, with Hague likely pairing with Josi on the top line. Trotz aims to establish a more robust and youthful defense to avoid the issues faced last season.

Nashville Predators General Manager Barry Trotz has secured defenseman Nick Perbix with a two-year, $5.5 million contract. Perbix, who played three seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, achieved career highs last season with six goals and 19 points. His performance was bolstered by an impressive +8 rating and significant contributions in shot blocking and physicality, averaging 14:41 on ice time per game. With a track record of consistent play, Perbix's addition aims to enhance the Predators' defensive unit.

Selected 169th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, Perbix has amassed 63 points in 220 games with the Lightning. His collegiate career at St. Cloud State was highlighted by accolades, including recognition on the NCHC's First All-Star Team. Notably, Perbix has represented Team USA at the Olympics and World Championship, showcasing his caliber on an international stage. The Predators are banking on his leadership and experience to fortify their back end.

The Nashville Predators have bolstered their defense by signing Nick Perbix, a 27-year-old former Tampa Bay Lightning player, to a two-year contract worth $5.5 million. Perbix, who was drafted in the sixth round by Tampa in 2017, has recorded 13 goals and 50 assists in 220 NHL games, proving to be a capable bottom-pairing defenseman. His addition adds depth to a Predators' blue line already featuring notable players like Roman Josi and Brady Skjei. With Perbix's cap hit set at $2.75 million, the Predators are left with approximately $9.3 million in salary cap space for the coming season, allowing for further roster enhancements.

The NHL trade landscape is heating up with teams exploring options for potential player acquisitions. The Buffalo Sabres are holding tight to Alex Tuch, with reports stating that they will not move him unless a team overpays. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are eyeing Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Nick Perbix, who is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. Perbix could serve as a replacement for the retired David Savard and allow prospects like David Reinbacher to develop in the AHL.

In other news, the Edmonton Oilers are rumored to be considering an offer sheet for St. Louis Blues goaltender Joel Hofer, who is currently stuck behind Jordan Binnington. This $4.6 million offer sheet would only cost the Oilers a second-round pick, which has been met with a strong response from Blues GM Doug Armstrong, indicating they would match any offer. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also exploring free agency, with names like Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett on their radar as they look to bolster their roster for the next season.

The Dallas Stars are gearing up for an eventful offseason, with GM Jim Nill looking to enhance the roster. With limited cap space left, the team aims to fill four forward spots and may trade from their pool of seven defensemen to bring in fresh talent. Key targets include Aaron Ekblad from the Florida Panthers and Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, financial constraints make these signings challenging. More realistic options like Nick Perbix of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Rasmus Andersson from the Calgary Flames may be within reach, offering depth and potential for roster improvement.