Predators Consider Trading Michael Bunting and Michael McCarron
The Nashville Predators are exploring potential trades as the deadline approaches, despite their contention for the final wildcard spot in the Western Conference. According to Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet, forwards Michael Bunting and Michael McCarron are among those being evaluated for market interest.
Michael Bunting’s Trade Situation
If Nashville decides to trade Bunting, it would mark the third consecutive year he has been dealt at the trade deadline. He has previously been involved in trades that sent Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes in 2024 and Thomas Novak to the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2025.
While some analysts have suggested Bunting’s trade value mirrors that of Kiefer Sherwood, a recent trade saw Sherwood move from the Vancouver Canucks to the San Jose Sharks for two second-round picks and a prospect. However, this comparison is imperfect due to Bunting’s lesser physicality compared to Sherwood.
- Bunting’s scoring contributions are similar to Sherwood’s.
- This season, Bunting has recorded 12 goals and 29 points.
- He averages nearly three minutes less ice time per game.
Although Bunting may not fit into a contending team’s top line, he could enter the secondary market for teams seeking players like Evander Kane.
Michael McCarron’s Market Appeal
McCarron, on the other hand, is recognized for his physical style of play. He is seen as valuable for teams looking to bolster their bottom-six forwards as the playoffs approach. Over the past three years, McCarron has accumulated 20 goals and 46 points in 196 games, alongside a 53.6% faceoff win rate, and has registered 439 hits.
- McCarron is a 30-year-old pending unrestricted free agent.
- He has a salary of $900,000.
Given his affordable contract and physical play, McCarron could be an attractive target for playoff-bound teams aiming to strengthen their fourth line.
