Predators' Steven Stamkos doesn't anticipate rebuild, even with a new GM
Speaking to reporters on April 20, Nashville Predators' Steven Stamkos indicated he doesn't see a rebuild, even with a new GM on the way.
A summer of change is ahead for the Nashville Predators , with a new general manager expected to be hired sometime before the draft in June. But according to Steven Stamkos , that doesn't mean a roster shakeup is coming. Speaking to reporters at Bridgestone Arena on April 20, Stamkos explained what he has heard from current management regarding the near-term direction of the team.
"The message was the expectation is still to be a competitive team and to push for the playoffs," he said. "I don't anticipate any huge changes. We've talked about, is there going to be a rebuild or this or that?
It's safe to say that's not going to be the case. " Nashville (38-34-10) came within four points of the playoffs this season, a big improvement from a bottom-three finish in 2024-25. Now, after holding exit meetings with players and coaches, the Predators seem eager to reload, instead of rebuild, the roster for 2026-27.
"We all want to be part of the solution," Stamkos said. "We saw it for 60 games, what the process can look like. The integration of some of the younger guys.