Mikael Granlund Trade
Grade: C
Trading Kevin Fiala to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Mikael Granlund was probably the most shocking trade for the Predators at the Trade Deadline. The Predators traded their former 2014 NHL Entry Draft 1st Round Pick in Kevin Fiala for an older version of him. Both players stand at 5’10” and around 190 pounds, the only difference is that Granlund (27-years-old) is older than Fiala (22-years-old).
Overall, this trade seemed like an impulse trade by the Predators. Rumors circulated the morning of the trade deadline that the Wild were interested in acquiring Fiala. Lo and behold later that afternoon, outlets announced that the Predators swapped Fiala for Granlund. There is no questioning that Granlund is a good player, but the cost to get him may come back to haunt the Preds.
Granlund has been a consistent player in the NHL recording 463 games played while registering 93 goals and 225 assists. With one more year left on his contract, compared to Fiala who is bound to be a free agent at the conclusion of the 2018-19 season, it is likely the Predators will offer Granlund a long-term deal.
Fiala, on the other hand, has played 207 NHL games recording 45 goals and 52 assists. Although his numbers are less than Granlund, he is five years younger and has not hit his prime yet. The main issue with Fiala was his upcoming contract, in which he would probably be asking for a big payday. It may have cost the Predators a hefty sum to keep Fiala, but it may have been worth it to extend him.
Over his years with the Predators, Fiala was beloved by his teammates, especially Roman Josi and Yannick Weber who are both from Switzerland, where Fiala is from. By trading him, this could impact the Predators locker room where players seem to be coming in and out like a revolving door. Overall, this trade was not the worst trade to be made, but it was not the best one to make either.