Predators Coach Speaks Out Amid Team’s Struggles: “Snakebitten” Season

The Nashville Predators have hit rock bottom in the 2024-25 NHL season, currently ranking dead last in the league standings with a dismal 7-15-6 record. A seven-game losing streak and an offense that ranks last in the NHL with just 2.18 goals per game have left the team reeling, despite an offseason of big-name acquisitions.

Brunette: “We’re Snakebitten”

Head coach Andrew Brunette attributed the Predators’ struggles to bad luck, emphasizing the team’s strong offensive zone presence that hasn’t translated into results:

“I think we’ve had really good offensive zone time, top five in the League. We deliver a lot of pucks… They’re just not going in. We’re a little snakebitten right now.”

While Brunette remains optimistic that fortunes will turn, the Predators have endured five shutouts this season and haven’t won a game since November 23. Their star players, including Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, have underperformed, combining for only 12 goals thus far.

GM Barry Trotz: Staying the Course

Amid growing frustrations, general manager Barry Trotz has expressed patience with the current roster, resisting pressure to make drastic, short-term moves:

“I’m not going to give up prime assets for rentals… It has to be someone that will help us now and for years to come.”

While Trotz acknowledged the possibility of accelerating a rebuild, he reiterated his commitment to a long-term plan approved by ownership. However, the lack of improvement raises questions about how long this approach can continue before major changes are made.

Offseason Spending Fails to Deliver

The Predators’ struggles are particularly disappointing given their ambitious offseason. Nashville made waves by signing Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei, but the results have been underwhelming:

• Stamkos & Marchessault: Combined for just 12 goals in 28 games.
• Filip Forsberg: Team leader with only nine goals.

The injury to Ryan O’Reilly, a critical offseason addition, has further hampered the team’s ability to generate offense.

Rebuild Looming?

As the team continues to flounder, speculation is mounting about a potential rebuild. Trotz has hinted that if the team doesn’t turn things around soon, the Predators could pivot to focus on their future:

“Hopefully we can thread the needle here, get back in the race, and be playing meaningful games down the stretch.”

But with the Predators now 12 points out of a wildcard spot, even threading the needle might not be enough to save the season.

Brunette’s Job Security in Question

Brunette, in his first year as head coach, faces mounting pressure as the team underperforms. While he downplayed concerns about his job security, his comments underscore the precarious nature of his position: “I think in our business, we’re terminal… When it happens, it happens.”

Next Up: A Crucial Matchup

The Predators have an opportunity to halt their skid when they face the also-struggling Calgary Flames at Bridgestone Arena on Tuesday night. With a win desperately needed to lift morale, this matchup could serve as a turning point—or further deepen the Predators’ nightmare season.

The clock is ticking for Nashville to salvage their campaign, but the path ahead looks uncertain. Whether the team opts for a rebuild or a last-ditch push, change appears inevitable if results don’t improve soon.