The Nashville Predators have officially traded forward Michael Bunting to the Dallas Stars. This transaction involves the Predators receiving the Seattle Kraken’s third-round draft pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft. The trade was confirmed by TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun.
Details of the Trade
- Player Involved: Michael Bunting
- Team Trading: Nashville Predators
- Team Receiving: Dallas Stars
- Draft Pick: Seattle Kraken’s third-round pick (2026)
- Date of Trade: March 5, 2026
Michael Bunting’s Performance
During the current NHL season, Bunting, 30, has recorded 13 goals and 31 points in 61 games with the Predators. Standing at 6 feet tall, he is in the final year of a three-year contract worth $13.5 million, with an annual cap hit of $4.5 million.
Contract Status
Bunting is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. This status may offer new opportunities for him, depending on his performance and the interest from other teams.
Career Overview
Drafted 117th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2014 NHL Draft, Bunting has accumulated a total of 108 goals and 250 points across 405 career games. His career includes stints with several teams: the Coyotes, Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Predators.
International Experience
Notably, Bunting has represented Canada internationally. He participated in the World Hockey Championship twice, earning a gold medal in 2021.
This trade represents a strategic move for both teams, impacting their rosters ahead of the impending free agency period.
