Three Former Predators Draft Picks Battle for Stanley Cup

Mattias Ekholm, a defenseman for the Oilers, previously played 12 seasons with the Predators, amassing 268 points in 719 games. He was traded to Edmonton in February 2023 as part of a salary-cap move. Viktor Arvidsson, a forward also with the Oilers, played seven seasons in Nashville, scoring 127 goals and 112 assists in 385 games before being traded to Los Angeles in July of 2021 and then later to Edmonton.

Seth Jones, a defenseman for the Panthers, was drafted fourth overall by the Predators in 2013. After two-and-a-half seasons, he was traded to Columbus in January 2016, and eventually landed with the Panthers via trade before the deadline in March 2025. He's become a crucial part of Florida's defense, averaging nearly 25 minutes of ice time. All three players were traded by the Predators, highlighting the team's strategic decisions over the years.

Ekholm has previously played in the Stanley Cup Final with the Predators in 2017 and with the Oilers in 2024, losing both times. Arvidsson was also on the 2017 Predators team. Jones is seeking his first Stanley Cup after being traded multiple times in his career.

The series begins Wednesday at 7 p.m. CT.

Mattias Ekholm and Viktor Arvidsson (Edmonton Oilers) and Seth Jones (Florida Panthers).

For readers, this Stanley Cup series is interesting because it features players who were once key members of the Nashville Predators. Their journey from Nashville to Edmonton and Florida, and their pursuit of the Stanley Cup, is a compelling narrative. Keep an eye on these players as they battle for the championship.

Do you think any of these former Predators will win the Stanley Cup this year? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!