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.

Nicolas Hague's transition from the Vegas Golden Knights to the Nashville Predators has sparked optimism within him, despite the Predators' disappointing season. After spending six seasons in Vegas, including a Stanley Cup victory, Hague believes Nashville's last year's record is misleading, viewing it as a temporary setback.

During his introductory press conference, he expressed excitement about bringing his championship experience to the Predators, aiming to guide teammates through the rigors of playoff intensity. Hague is open to playing alongside established talents like Roman Josi and Brady Skjei, emphasizing his adaptability on the ice. His history with Jonathan Marchessault, a fellow former Golden Knight, further enhances his enthusiasm for forging connections within his new team.

The Nashville Predators made significant moves during the first day of NHL free agency, focusing primarily on strengthening their defense after last season's struggles. General Manager Barry Trotz emphasized the importance of defensive fortification, stating, "If you can't defend, you can't win." The team acquired defensemen Nicolas Hague and Nick Perbix to bolster a defense that lacked size and reliability last year.

Hague, a towering 6-foot-6 defenseman, was obtained from the Vegas Golden Knights and is set to earn $22 million over four years. Perbix, standing at 6-foot-2, adds further depth, signing a two-year, $5.5 million deal. The Predators’ defense will now rely on a mix of veterans and younger players, aiming for better performance with less reliance on minor league talent.

Recent trades in the NHL have seen significant moves as teams prepare for the upcoming free agency. The Detroit Red Wings have traded Vladimir Tarasenko to the Minnesota Wild, aiming to enhance their depth while addressing salary cap challenges. Tarasenko, who had a disappointing season in Detroit, will bring secondary scoring at a reasonable cost for the Wild. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens made headlines by acquiring Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders, signaling a shift in their defense strategy with a promising long-term investment.

Other notable trades include the Nashville Predators acquiring Nicolas Hague from the Golden Knights and a conditional pick, while the Toronto Maple Leafs secured Matias Maccelli from the Mammoth. As teams recalibrate their rosters, the NHL trade landscape continues to evolve, highlighting the strategic maneuvers leading up to free agency.