Predators Trade Former Calder Trophy Finalist to Stars

Nashville sends Michael Bunting to Dallas for a 3rd round pick ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Nashville Predators have traded forward Michael Bunting to the Dallas Stars in exchange for a 3rd round draft pick. Bunting, a former Calder Trophy finalist, will now join a Stars team that is chasing the Colorado Avalanche for first place in the Central Division. The trade comes just 21 hours before the NHL's trade deadline, as the Predators continue to sell off assets while the Stars look to bolster their roster for a playoff push.

Why it matters

This trade represents the Predators' continued efforts to rebuild their roster by acquiring draft capital, while the Stars are aiming to strengthen their forward group as they make a run at the Stanley Cup. Bunting, a versatile player who can contribute on the power play and in a net-front role, should help fill the void left by the injury to Stars forward Mikko Rantanen.

The details

The Predators have already dealt several players, including forwards Michael McCarron and Cole Smith and defenseman Nick Blankenburg, for draft picks as they look to the future. Bunting, a former Calder Trophy finalist, now joins the Stars, who had previously acquired defenseman Tyler Myers from the Vancouver Canucks earlier this week. The Stars are currently chasing the Colorado Avalanche for first place in the Central Division, and Bunting's addition should help bolster their forward depth as they make a push for the playoffs.

  • The NHL Trade Deadline is 21 hours away.

The players

Michael Bunting

A former Calder Trophy finalist who has been traded from the Nashville Predators to the Dallas Stars.

Barry Trotz

The general manager of the Nashville Predators, who is clearly in sell mode as the trade deadline approaches.

Jim Nill

The general manager of the Dallas Stars, who has been active in the trade market, acquiring both Bunting and defenseman Tyler Myers to help his team's playoff push.

Mikko Rantanen

A Stars forward who is currently injured, and whose absence Bunting will help fill.

Roope Hintz

A Stars forward who is set to return from injury, further bolstering the team's forward depth.

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What’s next

The Stars will look to integrate Bunting into their lineup as they continue their push for the top spot in the Central Division and a deep playoff run.

The takeaway

This trade represents the Predators' continued efforts to rebuild their roster by acquiring draft capital, while the Stars are aiming to strengthen their forward group as they make a run at the Stanley Cup. Bunting's addition should help the Stars fill the void left by Rantanen's injury and provide a boost to their playoff aspirations.