Predators Hold Tight, Trade for Youth

0:00You're listening to NHL News Today. Subscribe now for fast, daily updates on your team. The Nashville Predators made waves at the recent NHL trade deadline by holding on to their veteran stars. General manager Barry Trots turned down big offers for 36-year-old Steven Stomkos, who's already potted 31 goals this season and Ryan O'Reilly. Stamkos even refused to wave his no-movement clause to stay and fight for a playoff spot. The team sits at 29 wins, 28 losses, and 9 overtime losses, just a few points from a Western conference wildcard birth. They stumbled with a 3-to-1 loss to the Emton Oilers on Sunday, March 15, continuing a pattern of slow starts. Captain Roman Josie called out the squad for blowing early leads and first period woes after that game. To mix things up, Nashville traded minor pieces like Michael Bunting to Dallas and called up young talent from their AHL affiliate in Milwaukee. Prospects like Fader Aspetschkov, who scored their only goal versus Edmonton

1:02and defenseman Ryan Ufko, with his first NHL tally against Seattle, are getting ice time. Forward Tyson Joost is earning raves too. Claimed off waivers earlier this year, he settled into the bottom six, bringing energy, smart play, and some timely goals that have coach Andrew, Brunette Smiling. This week shapes up as a real test with a brutal schedule. They wrap a road trip Tuesday, March 17, at the Winnipeg Jets at 8 p.m. Eastern. Then home gains Thursday, March 19, versus Seattle at 8 p.m. and Saturday, March 21 against Vegas at 2 p.m. before Sunday. Turn around in Chicago at 3 p.m. This story is made possible by our sponsor. See the episode description. A pillow that sounds as good as it feels. Built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.