The Nashville Predators are on the hunt for a new general manager, and the search is heating up as we enter Month 4. Since Barry Trotz announced his retirement on February 2, majority owner Bill Haslam has been carefully evaluating candidates, but no clear front-runner has emerged just yet. The team is casting a wide net, considering both internal and external options, with hopes of having a new GM in place by the NHL draft in June.
"It's one of those jobs everyone's going to want," Haslam said back in February. "I think we're open to everything; we want the best person in this role."
With that in mind, here are five top candidates who could be the next architect of the Predators' future:
1. Darren Yorke (Carolina Hurricanes)
Yorke has been a key figure in Carolina since 2010, climbing the ranks from video scout to assistant general manager. He played a pivotal role in the Hurricanes' rebuild, helping stock the team through the draft and eventually breaking a 10-year playoff drought in 2019. Since then, Carolina has become a perennial contender, making the playoffs eight straight seasons and reaching the Eastern Conference final four times. His experience in building from within could be a huge asset for Nashville.
2. Brett Peterson (Florida Panthers)
Peterson made history in 2020 when he became the first Black assistant general manager in NHL history. Since joining the Panthers, he's worked alongside GM Bill Zito to build a powerhouse that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, plus a Presidents' Trophy in 2022. Before his NHL front-office role, Peterson was a vice president at Wasserman Media Group and an NHLPA-certified player agent since 2009. He also served as Team USA's general manager at the world championships for three years, giving him a global perspective on talent.
3. Bill Scott (Edmonton Oilers)
Scott has been an assistant general manager with the Oilers since 2014 and also serves as general manager for their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. His deep experience in player development and roster management—especially in a high-pressure market like Edmonton—makes him a strong candidate. He understands the balance between building through the draft and making strategic moves to compete now.
As the Predators look to turn the page and build a winning culture, each of these candidates brings a unique blend of experience, vision, and leadership. The clock is ticking toward the draft, and the next GM will have a big opportunity to shape the team's direction for years to come.