Predators Week Ahead: Schedule & Storylines – Wild Card Chase, Youth Infusion and More – The Hockey Writers – Nashville Predators

Here is a breakdown of the key storylines, news topics, and upcoming schedule for the Nashville Predators for the week of March 16-23, 2026.

The Deadline Aftermath & Keeping the Veterans

The biggest talking point surrounding the Predators right now is general manager Barry Trotz’s decision not to tear down the roster at the recently passed 2026 NHL Trade Deadline.

Despite heavy interest and lucrative trade offers for 36-year-old Steven Stamkos (who already has 31 goals this season) and Ryan O’Reilly, Nashville opted to keep them. Stamkos publicly refused to waive his no-movement clause, signaling strong loyalty to the locker room as the team makes a final push for a playoff spot.

The Wild Card Chase & First-Period Struggles

The Predators (currently at a 29-28-9 record) are in a dogfight for a Western Conference wild card spot, sitting just a few points out. However, consistency is an issue. They are coming off a frustrating 3-1 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday, March 15, where captain Roman Josi openly criticized the team’s recurring habit of giving up early leads and struggling in the first period.

The Youth Infusion

To balance the veteran presence, Nashville is heavily leaning on its youth. Following some minor deadline sell-offs (like trading Michael Bunting to the Dallas Stars), the Predators recalled several prospects from the American Hockey League (AHL) Milwaukee Admirals. Fedor Svechkov just scored the lone goal against Edmonton, and defenseman Ryan Ufko recently netted his first career NHL goal in a comeback win against the Seattle Kraken.

Tyson Jost Finding a Role

Forward Tyson Jost is receiving well-deserved praise this week. Claimed on waivers earlier in the season, Jost has finally found a steady home in Nashville’s bottom six, providing vital energy, structure, and a recent scoring bump that has impressed head coach Andrew Brunette.

Predators Upcoming Schedule

The upcoming week is an absolute gauntlet for Nashville and will be make-or-break for their playoff hopes. They close out a tough five-game road trip in Winnipeg before heading back to Smashville for a pair of crucial home games, wrapping up the weekend with a quick turnaround in Chicago.

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