The Nashville Predators announced a significant front‑office reshuffle this week, naming Chris MacFarland as their new president of hockey operations and general manager. The move comes as the franchise looks to break a cycle of playoff disappointment that has seen them miss the postseason three times in the last four seasons.
MacFarland arrives after a four‑year stint as general manager of the Colorado Avalanche, where he helped steer the team to the league’s best regular‑season record this year. His tenure was marked by a nomination for the NHL’s General Manager of the Year award, sharing the honor with Bill Guerin and Pat Verbeek.
He succeeds Barry Trotz, who will transition into an advisory capacity after steering the Predators’ recent roster decisions. Joe Sakic, the Avalanche’s president, will serve as the Colorado club’s interim general manager while the franchise evaluates its next steps, including the future of coach Jared Bednar whose contract is set to expire.
Family Considerations
Beyond the professional challenge, MacFarland cited personal reasons for the relocation, noting that the new role brings him closer to his family. The proximity to his home state was a factor that weighed heavily in the decision.
The Predators’ leadership hopes MacFarland’s proven ability to build a competitive roster will translate into a quicker return to the playoffs. His experience working under Sakic, who guided the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup in 2022, is expected to infuse the organization with a championship mindset.