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Nashville Predators All-Star Frustrated With Contract Talks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Sep 15, 2025 1:40 PM ET

The Nashville Predators missed the playoffs last season for the second time in the last three years. The team has also not been out of the first round of the playoffs since the 2017-18 season, which has caused some tension within he franchise.

The team has been trying to build itself back up, and they are now dealing with the ongoing restricted free agency of young star Luke Evangelista. Evangelista and the team have been trying to discuss a new deal, but things may have gone a little sideways.

Talks Stalled Between Predators and Luke Evangelista?

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, there may be a large gap in contract talks between the Predators and Evangelista. Evangelista is reportedly frustrated with how the talks have gone, and this could impact his long-term future with the organization.

David Pagnotta: There’s a sizeable gap between the Predators and RFA forward Luke Evangelista. The two sides have continued to talk, but I’m told there is frustration from the player’s end. This likely ends up in a bridge deal" - The Fourth Period (9/13)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) September 14, 2025

Even if the two sides come to an agreement on a deal, it seems like it may be a shorter contract to keep him in-house. Evangelista was great for the Predators last season, and the organization likely can't afford to just lose him for nothing.

Over 68 games played in the regular season, Evangelista scored 10 goals and 22 assists. In the 2023-24 season, Evangelista scored 16 goals and 39 assists.

The young forward has shown impressive consistency over the past few years, and Nashville has viewed him as part of the future. Evangelista could be a building block for the Predators, but the team does need to get this contract situation fixed.

If the Predators were to get the hint that Evangelista would be leaving the team down the line, the best solution could be to trade him for future assets. Nashville has to start building itself back toward Stanley Cup title contention, and while the team would like Evangelista to be part of that, everything remains fluid.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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