New Nashville Predators GM Chris MacFarland made his first move Tuesday by trading for forward Ross Colton and prospect Isak Posch. In exchange, the Colorado Avalanche received goalie Magnus Chrona and two third-round picks from 2026 and 2027. MacFarland previously helped build the 2022 championship roster in Colorado before joining Nashville two weeks ago.

Colorado moved Colton to clear salary space after a season where they held the NHL's best record but suffered a sweep in the Western Conference finals. Colton carries a contract worth $4 million for one more year. This move gives Joe Sakic nearly $7 million in cap space to handle four pending unrestricted free agents on the defense.

Nashville adds a veteran top-nine forward who recorded nine goals and 24 points in 73 games last season. The Predators finished just four points shy of a wild-card spot and now hold $23.22 million in projected cap space. MacFarland can now leverage this financial flexibility to bolster a core featuring Steven Stamkos and Filip Forsberg.

This trade allows the Predators to bridge the gap between their youth and veteran stars. Colorado now focuses on securing the back end of their roster. Nashville gains a proven asset to push for a playoff spot.