Barry Trotz is stepping down as general manager of the Nashville Predators after three seasons, but he’ll still be with the team as an advisor. He took the GM role on February 27, 2023, replacing David Poile effective July 1.
As of now, the Predators sit fifth in the Central Division, with a record of 25 wins, 23 losses, and 6 overtime losses. They’re chasing a playoff spot, currently trailing the Los Angeles Kings by four points for the second wild card in the Western Conference.
Trotz, who has been in professional sports for around 40 years, shared that it’s time for him to prioritize family. “I’ve missed a lot of important moments,” he said, reflecting on how his career has often kept him away from home. Now that he has grandkids, he feels it’s essential to be more present in their lives.
Predators owner Bill Haslam expressed hope to have a new GM in place before the NHL Draft on June 26-27, 2026. “We want to do this right,” he noted, emphasizing the flexibility they currently have in the selection process.
In Trotz’s first season as GM, the Predators made the playoffs but lost in the first round to the Vancouver Canucks. They made significant signings in the following years, but the team struggled to perform, finishing at the bottom of the league last season. After a tough start this year, Trotz maintained support for coach Andrew Brunette, stating the players needed to take more responsibility for their performance.
Captain Roman Josi expressed surprise at Trotz’s retirement announcement but emphasized the team’s focus on the upcoming games and fighting for a playoff position.
Historically, Trotz has had a substantial impact on the franchise. He was the first head coach of the Predators, guiding them from their inaugural season and amassing 557 wins in 1,196 games. After Nashville, he coached the Washington Capitals, leading them to a Stanley Cup victory in 2018. With a total of 914 wins, he ranks fifth in NHL coaching history.
While Trotz isn’t planning a return to coaching and assures he’s healthy, he emphasized the need for clear timelines and responsibilities. Making way for new leadership could pave the way for the Predators to rebuild and reestablish themselves as contenders in the NHL.
For more information on Trotz and the Nashville Predators, check out NHL.com.
