When the Nashville Predators loaded up with Jonathan Marchessault, Steven Stamkos, and Ryan O’Reilly, they weren’t just expected to contend; they were Stanley Cup favorites. Instead, the entire experiment imploded, culminating in a disastrous 30-44-8 season and a top-three draft pick. Now, the fallout begins, and the writing on the wall points directly at Marchessault. The Predators are facing a retool, and moving a big contract is the first logical step.
According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos, Marchessault is the most likely candidate to be moved. It’s not hard to see why. Just one year into a lucrative four-year, $5.5 million AAV deal, his goal production was slashed in half—plummeting from a 42-goal campaign in Vegas to just 21 in Nashville. For a team that needs to get younger and re-allocate resources, that’s an expensive contract for diminishing returns. The biggest hurdle, of course, is his no-movement clause (NMC). But for a fierce competitor like Marchessault, the chance to join a legitimate contender might be enough to entice him to waive it.
Which Teams Could Land the Former Conn Smythe Winner?
This is where the speculation gets interesting. Three teams immediately come to mind, all with a pressing need for a proven, top-six scoring winger who brings championship pedigree. The Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers are all reportedly in the mix.
Breaking Down Marchessault’s Fit with Potential Suitors
For Ottawa, adding a veteran like Marchessault would provide a much-needed scoring punch and leadership for their talented young core. In Toronto, the pressure to win is eternal, and adding a playoff-tested warrior could be the missing piece to get them over the hump. But the most tantalizing fit is Edmonton. Can you imagine Marchessault’s tenacity and scoring touch alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl? It’s the kind of move a team makes when they are all-in on winning a Stanley Cup now.
The ball is ultimately in Marchessault’s court. Does he stay with a rebuilding Predators team, or does he agree to a move to chase another ring? My money is on the latter. He’s a winner, and watching from the bottom isn’t in his DNA. Keep a close eye on these Jonathan Marchessault rumors as the dog days of summer march along.
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