Michael Bunting, a 30-year-old forward, has been traded from the Nashville Predators to the Dallas Stars in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This move comes as the Stars are on a hot streak, having won a franchise-best 10 games in a row and currently sitting second in the Central Division, just six points behind the Colorado Avalanche. The Predators, on the other hand, are in a bit of a slump, sitting fifth in the division, five points behind the Seattle Kraken for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference.
Bunting, who is in the final season of a three-year, $13.5 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, has been a solid contributor for the Predators this season. He has 31 points (13 goals, 18 assists) in 61 games, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and physicality. The Stars' general manager, Jim Nill, praised Bunting's skills, highlighting his toughness and goal-scoring prowess.
This trade marks the second in two days for the Stars, who previously acquired defenseman Tyler Myers from the Vancouver Canucks. The Predators, meanwhile, have been busy making deals of their own. They traded defenseman Nick Blankenburg to the Colorado Avalanche and forward Michael McCarron to the Minnesota Wild, and also sent forward Cole Smith to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for a defenseman prospect and a third-round pick in the 2028 draft.
With these moves, the Predators are reshuffling their roster, while the Stars are strengthening their lineup for a potential playoff run. Bunting's addition to the Stars could be a significant boost, especially with his ability to score goals and his physical presence on the ice. The 2026 Draft pick acquired by the Predators will be an important asset for their future development, as they look to rebuild and improve their standing in the Central Division.
