The Nashville Predators sent forward Luke Evangelista to the New Jersey Devils on Sept. 1, 2026, receiving Colorado’s 2028 conditional first-round pick and New Jersey’s 2028 second-round pick in return. More Sports News
What Nashville Got in the Evangelista Trade
Nashville receives two picks in the deal — a conditional 2028 first-rounder originally belonging to Colorado and a 2028 second-rounder from New Jersey. The conditional first-round pick comes with a notable clause: if Colorado’s 2027 first-round pick is not transferred to Toronto, or if the 2028 Colorado pick falls in the top 10, Nashville will instead receive Colorado’s 2029 first-round pick.
Nashville’s 2028 NHL Draft Pick Haul
The trade gives Nashville 11 picks in the 2028 NHL Draft. That includes two first-round picks, three second-round picks, two fifth-round picks, and one pick each in the third, fourth, sixth, and seventh rounds.
What GM Chris MacFarland Said About the Deal
General Manager Chris MacFarland acknowledged the difficulty of moving a popular young player while explaining the team’s thinking. “We know Luke is a good, young player who has endeared himself to our fans, so this decision was not made lightly,” MacFarland said. “At the same time, we’ve explored all possibilities in pursuit of making our team better moving forward. This trade brings us two more high draft picks, giving us seven in the first two rounds over the next two seasons; provides us with flexibility from a roster and salary cap standpoint to make additional improvements to our team; and creates a space for the promising young wingers within our organization to compete for, and earn, an NHL job. We wish Luke all the best in New Jersey.”
What the Trade Means for Nashville’s Roster
Beyond the draft capital, the Predators gain roster flexibility and salary cap room to pursue additional moves. MacFarland also pointed to the opportunity the deal creates for younger wingers already in the organization to compete for a spot on the NHL roster.
Nashville Predators 2026-27 Season Tickets
Full, half, and quarter season ticket plans are available for the 2026-27 Nashville Predators season, presented by Regions Bank. Fans can call 615-770-7800, visit NashvillePredators.com, or text PREDS to 833-453-2488 to receive ticket offers directly.
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