Trade: Spencer Stastney dealt to Edmonton
Barry Trotz creates some space in a crowded defense room
The Nashville Predators announced on Friday, December 12 that defenseman Spencer Stastney has been traded to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for a 3rd round pick in the 2027 NHL draft. The news was first broke by NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman as he teased a couple moves taking shape for the Oilers. Pierre LeBrun soon confirmed the return of a 3rd round pick in 2027.
Spencer Stastney was drafted by the Predators in the 5th round (131 overall) of the 2018 draft. Stastney would go on to Notre Dame where he played all four years including wearing the assistant captain ‘A’ on his jersey during his senior season. He also represented Team USA three times at the U17, U18 and U20 World Juniors tournaments. After his college career ended in 2022, Stastney made the leap to the pros and joined the AHL Milwaukee Admirals. Over the next three seasons, he rotated between the Admirals and Nashville Predators, playing a key defensive role on some high end Admirals teams. Stastney finishes his Predators tenure with 18 points across 81 NHL games.
While the Predators have been prominent on trade boards and in the rumor mill, much of that focus has been on veteran forwards and less on defense. Looking at the trade from Nashville’s perspective the list of NHL defensemen was longer than the available roster spots. Of late, Andrew Brunette has been putting a 7 forward and 11 defense lineup to keep everyone playing and that does not even account for the injured Justin Barron. Heading into training camp, Spencer Stastney was likely on the outside of the NHL roster but he played his way onto the team. Once he got his opportunities this season, he played his way into a regular role. That also means he played his way into having trade value. Getting a 3rd round pick for a player with a total of a full season of NHL games is quite good value and gives Barry Trotz more roster flexibility with players coming up in the pipeline.
Finally, Spencer Stastney has been a favorite of the Penalty Box Radio team. He’s a great person, a tremendous story of perseverance and using his voice to positively impact others. We will miss him in Nashville and wish him all the success in Edmonton.
Statistics courtesy of the NHL and Elite Prospects
