June 19: Predators strike early

Hockey: The Nashville Predators are making some early moves before draft day and free agency. Two moves have been made: first, Jason Arnott has been trade to New Jersey for Matt Halischuk and a second-round pick in the 2011 draft. Halischuck is a smaller winger, standing 5'11" and sitting at 185lbs. At age 22, he's still got plenty of time to build up his legs for speed or balance. He played in both the AHL and NHL last year, putting up 22 points in 32 games and 2 points in 20 games, respectively. The second round pick that went along with Halischuk is likely going to be a middle-of-the-pack pick. Jersey, with plenty of skill, a new head coach, and Brodeur still, are likely to make another trip to the play offs. Which is good for Nashville.

Nashville has done remarkable things over the past few seasons. They aren't a high-skill, high-priced, high-hitting, high-scoring, or power house teams. However, they make it to the play offs or close almost every year. Nashville did a masterful job against Chicago considering how heavily weighted that series was in Chicago's favor. Personally, I'd give a vote to Trotts for the Jack Adams'. Nonetheless, the lack of post-season success (being ousted in the first round) and missing the play offs one year (2008-2009), Nashville does need to consider the future.

I'd say New Jersey is closer to another cup run than Nashville, making the trade a balanced one for both teams. Trotts will do his thing again, instilling solid work ethic. Nashville needs some work and I need to put some thought into who will be the next captain. Not following the team directly I don't have an answer right now, though I'm sure it'll be obvious with a bit of research.

Also, Nashville brought in Ryan Parent (and a 7th round conditional from 2011) from Philly for the rights to Hamhuis. Hamhuis may not sign in Philly and take his chances in the open market. Nonetheless, this is a smart move by Holmgren, ensuring that he can shore up his defensive core. I believe Ryan Parent will still develop and become a better player. He has shown the ability to move the puck, lay the body, and take punishing minutes in the corners. He needs to just get his wits about him. Philly was disjointed and bloodthirsty, and that forced Parent out of the "learning" bit to the "just do better" bit. Nonetheless, another wise move by both organizations.