Nashville weighing changes on defense amid slow start
Nashville has opened 2026-27 with three wins in eight games and is evaluating ways to improve its defense. GM Chris MacFarland's club has discussed a veteran defenseman with term, though no deal is imminent, and Roman Josi is not the player being shopped. The team's season results will influence decisions on Ryan O'Reilly, Ross Colton, and other expiring contracts before the March 1 deadline.
Nashville's three victories in eight outings have come after a season in which the club narrowly missed the Western Conference wild card, raising playoff expectations under new GM Chris MacFarland. Early defensive play, despite Roman Josi's presence, has prompted internal review.
Daily Faceoff LIVE reported talks involving an experienced defenseman with remaining contract term, though Josi is not the player being discussed and nothing appears close. Nashville also added Jayden Struble last weekend. The front office may wait to see how the season unfolds before deciding on Ryan O'Reilly, Ross Colton, and other expiring blueliners ahead of the March 1 deadline.
If Nashville reshapes its defense, affected groups could include players whose roles or contracts change, coaches adjusting systems, and fans following roster turnover. Local businesses tied to game-day traffic may see modest shifts if team performance changes. The broader trade market could also react, as rival clubs evaluate comparable defensemen and deadline prices. These effects are speculative and likely limited compared with larger social issues.