Erik Haula has been traded from the New Jersey Devils to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The veteran forward, 34, enters the final year of his three-year contract worth $9.45 million, which he signed in June 2023 after a prior trade from the Boston Bruins. Haula previously played for Nashville during the 2020-21 season, where he recorded 21 points.

In his tenure with the Devils, he amassed 97 points over 225 regular-season games, alongside 37 points in 78 playoff matches. Known for his playoff performance, he helped the Vegas Golden Knights reach the Stanley Cup Final in 2018. Meanwhile, Hanzel, a sixth-round pick of the Avalanche in 2023, has been playing in the AHL and ECHL, marking a fresh start in Nashville's roster.

The Nashville Predators have made a strategic move by reacquiring Erik Haula from the New Jersey Devils. In return, the team sent a 2025 fourth-round pick and defenseman Jeremy Hanzel to New Jersey. Haula, who had a decent season with the Devils last year, scoring 11 goals and adding 10 assists, brings valuable experience back to Nashville, where he previously played during the 2020-21 season.

This transfer highlights the Predators' need for versatile players capable of filling multiple roles, particularly in the center and wing positions. Haula's ability to adapt to different lineups is expected to bolster the team's depth as they aim to enhance scoring opportunities from the center position. Despite the acquisition, the Predators still face challenges in addressing their center depth comprehensively.