The Nashville Predators’ search for a new General Manager is ongoing, with speculation arising about Chris MacFarland, the current GM of the Colorado Avalanche.
Elliotte Friedman, on the “32 Thoughts: The Podcast – Mile High Angst” episode, discussed the Predators’ GM vacancy and the rumors linking MacFarland, who remains under contract with the Avalanche.
Kyle Bukauskas of the podcast noted the prolonged nature of the Predators’ search and inquired about reports connecting MacFarland to Nashville. Friedman acknowledged that the speculation around MacFarland could be a reason for the extended search, though he stressed that no deal or agreement is in place, and it’s not guaranteed he will move to Nashville or leave Colorado. The length of the search suggests the Predators are interested in speaking with a specific individual, and MacFarland is a logical target.
Friedman recalled that the Predators were initially denied permission to speak with Eric Tulsky, the GM of the Carolina Hurricanes, earlier in their search. He stated that the Avalanche would similarly not grant permission for their GM to speak with another team while they are still competing. Even if such a request were made, Colorado would not agree to it.
Furthermore, MacFarland is currently under contract beyond the current season, meaning he cannot simply depart from the Avalanche. Colorado’s history with MacFarland indicates his value to the organization. When Anaheim hired Pat Verbeek, they sought permission to interview MacFarland, who was a strong candidate at the time. Joe Sakic, then the Avalanche’s GM, inquired about MacFarland’s aspirations. MacFarland expressed a desire to be a GM, preferably in Colorado, but was open to opportunities elsewhere if Sakic wouldn’t relinquish the role. Sakic responded by denying permission and subsequently promoting MacFarland to GM, demonstrating the organization’s high regard for him.
Friedman concluded that nothing is finalized, and Colorado has not, nor would they, permit MacFarland to speak with other teams during the season. While Nashville might inquire about him once Colorado’s season concludes, the notion of a done deal or MacFarland being a certainty for the Predators is highly premature.
English Translation:
The Nashville Predators’ search for a new General Manager continues, and there has been speculation linking the current Colorado Avalanche GM, Chris MacFarland.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, on the “32 Thoughts: The Podcast – Mile High Angst” episode, addressed the Nashville Predators’ GM search and the speculation surrounding Colorado Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland, who is still under contract.
Kyle Bukauskas asked Friedman about the Predators’ prolonged search and the reports connecting Chris MacFarland to Nashville. Friedman indicated that the speculation surrounding MacFarland could be a factor in the extended search. However, he emphasized that there is no agreement in place, and it’s not certain that MacFarland will move to Nashville or leave Colorado. Friedman suggested that the duration of the search implies the Predators are waiting to speak with someone, and MacFarland is a logical candidate.
Friedman recalled that the Predators’ request to speak with Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky was denied earlier in their search. He stated that Colorado would not allow their GM to interview with another team while they are still playing. Even if a request were made, Colorado would not grant permission.
Additionally, MacFarland is under contract beyond the current season, meaning he cannot simply leave. Colorado’s past actions highlight their high valuation of MacFarland. When Anaheim hired Pat Verbeek, they requested permission to interview MacFarland, who was considered a legitimate contender. Joe Sakic, then the Avalanche’s GM, spoke with MacFarland, who expressed his desire to be a GM, ideally in Colorado, but would consider opportunities elsewhere if Sakic didn’t step down. Sakic denied permission and later promoted MacFarland to GM, underscoring the organization’s strong belief in him.
Friedman concluded that nothing is decided, and Colorado has not given or would give MacFarland permission to speak with other teams during the season. While Nashville might express interest once Colorado’s season ends, the idea that it’s a done deal or that MacFarland is definitely heading there is considered far too premature.
