In the fast-paced world of NHL free agency, fortunes can change in the blink of an eye—and no team exemplified this more than the Nashville Predators on July 1, 2024.

With the blockbuster signings of Steven Stamkos, Brady Skjei, and Jonathan Marchessault, the Predators seemed poised for a dramatic turnaround. Yet, as the dust settled on a disappointing season, whispers of major changes began swirling around the franchise.

Now, with the team languishing near the bottom of the standings, all eyes are on general manager Barry Trotz and the tough decisions he faces.

One name stands out among the potential casualties: Quebec-born forward Jonathan Marchessault. Once celebrated for his 42-goal campaign with the Golden Knights, Marchessault’s recent struggles have sparked intense speculation about his future in Nashville. Could he be the first domino to fall in a potential rebuild?

And if so, what might this mean for the Montreal Canadiens, who are always on the lookout for experienced talent?

As rumors gather momentum and insiders weigh in, the fate of a proven scorer hangs in the balance. What will the Predators do next—and could Marchessault’s journey lead him to Montreal sooner than anyone expects? The answers may surprise you.

Photo of Nashville and Canadiens

Photo credit: NHL

On the opening day of free agency, July 1, 2024, the Nashville Predators stole the spotlight. With the signings of Steven Stamkos, Brady Skjei, and Jonathan Marchessault, they added major reinforcements.

In the end, however, those signings didn’t deliver the expected results, as the Predators endured a miserable 2024-2025 season, finishing 28th overall in the standings.

That said, Predators GM Barry Trotz has already stated he won’t hesitate to initiate a rebuild if results don’t follow next season. In that context, the Quebec-born forward could be one of the first players sacrificed.

RUMOR: Jonathan Marchessault Could Be Traded Mid-Summer and Be the First Player Sacrificed by the Predators, Says Nick Kypreos

That’s exactly what Nick Kypreos said on the matter, and the Sportsnet insider didn’t hesitate to mention Marchessault as a potential contract buyout candidate if the Predators plan to cut down on payroll.

The cost to acquire him wouldn’t be very high.

“If [the Predators] have a chance to move one of their expensive, long-term contracts, Jonathan Marchessault would be the most likely.”

– Nick Kypreos via Sportsnet

Let’s not forget that Jonathan Marchessault signed a five-year contract worth $5.5 million per year on July 1.

After scoring 42 goals with the Golden Knights in 2023-2024, his production was cut in half last season, finishing with just 21 goals and 56 points in 78 games.

At 34 years old, he can still help an NHL team in the short term, and if the Predators were to buy out his contract, he could become an intriguing option for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

A potential opportunity could present itself to the Habs in this situation – and much sooner than expected.