NHL trade news: Nashville Predators trade Jeremy Hanzel to New Jersey Devils for Erik Haula in spicy return move

The Nashville Predators pulled off a move that few saw coming, acquiring forward Erik Haula from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for defenseman Jeremy Hanzel. The deal, confirmed just a week before the 2025 NHL Draft, signals Nashville’s intent to blend experience with youth heading into a critical offseason stretch.On the other end of the deal, defenseman Jeremy Hanzel heads to the New Jersey Devils. Hanzel, just 22 years old, was originally drafted by the Colorado Avalanche and later acquired by Nashville in a deadline move. He has spent most of the season in the AHL with the Milwaukee Admirals, also briefly suiting up in the ECHL with Atlanta.The Devils gain a promising blue liner with good skating and positional awareness, while not a headline-grabbing move. Hanzel's acquisition aligns with New Jersey’s push to reinforce depth on their back end. Especially after battling through inconsistent defensive performances last season.Hanzel still has developmental strides to make, but the Devils’ system may give him more ice time and a clearer path to a full-time NHL role. For a young rearguard trying to break in, this kind of trade could be a turning point.This move also shifts attention toward the upcoming NHL Draft, where the Predators now hold nine picks, including three in the first round. Haula’s arrival adds veteran stability as the organization prepares to welcome a wave of new talent.Read more: Matthew Tkachuk sparks dynasty debate with bold “We gotta be a dynasty now” claim after Panthers win Stanley Cup againThis trade isn't blockbuster-level, but it could become more significant than it first appears. The Predators are clearly interested in building a playoff-caliber team without waiting through another full-scale rebuild. With veterans like Haula mentoring the next generation and fresh prospects on the horizon, the franchise appears committed to faster progress.