Predators Trade Sissons, Lauzon for Hague; Sign 4-Year Deal

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    The Nashville Predators and the Vegas Golden Knights executed a notable trade involving three players, reshaping both teams’ rosters. The Predators secured defenseman Nicolas Hague, and in return, center Colton Sissons and defenseman Jeremy Lauzon were sent to the Golden Knights. The transaction was finalized on Monday and included a new contract for Hague, who was a pending restricted free agent. Hague signed a four-year deal worth $22 million with Nashville.

    The trade also granted the Predators a third-round draft pick in 2027, with the potential upgrade to a second-round selection if Vegas reaches the Western Conference finals in the 2026 playoffs. As part of the agreement, Nashville will retain half of Sissons’ salary, who is earning $2.86 million in the final season of his existing seven-year contract.

    The acquisition of Hague significantly strengthens Nashville’s defense, offering a formidable and physical presence to a lineup eager to bounce back after missing out on the playoffs for two consecutive years. With his stature and skill set, Hague adds a much-needed dimension to the team’s blue line.

    From Vegas’s standpoint, the trade positively impacts their salary cap, alleviating the uncertainty surrounding future financial commitments to Hague. Adding Sissons and Lauzon, who are both entering the final year of their deals, allows the Golden Knights to manage their finances effectively while preparing for the free agency period. The move also positions Vegas to pursue high-cost free agents, with Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner being highlighted as a potential target.

    At 26 years old, Nicolas Hague is known for his defensive capabilities, having recorded five goals and 12 points in 68 games during the previous season. Over six NHL seasons, all spent with the Golden Knights, Hague has amassed 20 goals and 83 points across 364 career matches.

    Predators general manager Barry Trotz expressed enthusiasm about adding Hague, emphasizing his coveted style as a defenseman—marked by size, physicality, and strong skating. The new four-year contract underscores Hague’s anticipated impact on shaping Nashville’s defensive future.

    Additionally, Trotz’s strategy includes infusing youth into the team, highlighted by Nashville’s recent draft picks. The team had three first-round selections and five out of seven picks in the opening two rounds. Notably, Nashville chose Brady Martin, a promising OHL center, at the fifth overall position.

    As Sissons departs Nashville, he concludes an 11-season journey with the team, having contributed seven goals and 21 points in 72 games last season. His career totals with the Predators include 95 goals and 221 points over 691 games. Meanwhile, Lauzon, expected to command a $2 million cap hit, brings seven years of NHL experience. His last season was cut short due to a lower body injury after appearing in just 28 games.