Despite slipping to the No. 5 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft lottery, Nashville Predators General Manager Barry Trotz remains calm, confident, and forward-focused.
“I feel very comfortable,” Trotz said when asked about the result. “We’re going to get a very good player at five. There’s no panic here.”
The Predators entered the lottery with hopes of landing a top-three selection, but the odds didn’t fall in their favor. Still, with a deep and talented draft class projected for 2025, Trotz is optimistic about the team’s ability to add a high-impact prospect to an already promising pipeline.
A seasoned hockey mind and former Stanley Cup-winning coach, Trotz has been instrumental in reshaping the Predators’ roster with a focus on youth, speed, and long-term development. Since transitioning to the front office, he’s emphasized patience and smart drafting—an approach that continues to define Nashville’s strategy.
“We’ve done our homework, and we’re going to trust our scouting staff,” Trotz added. “This is a deep draft, and we’re confident that we’ll bring in someone who fits our identity and can grow with this group.”
Fans may have been disappointed by the lottery drop, but Trotz’s calm demeanor is helping set the tone for the organization’s next steps. With the 2025 NHL Draft approaching, all eyes will be on Nashville’s pick at No. 5—and on the continued evolution of a team building steadily toward the future.
