Filip Forsberg led the charge with two goals and an assist, while Luke Evangelista contributed with a goal and two assists, as the Nashville Predators ended their four-game losing streak by defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2 on Saturday night.

Despite an early two-goal lead from Toronto, with John Tavares and Mitch Marner finding the net, Nashville fought back valiantly. Michael Bunting scored the Predators' first goal, followed by Kieffer Bellows equalizing. Forsberg then secured the lead for Nashville just before the second intermission, and Evangelista's insurance goal sealed the victory.

Michael Bunting made his debut for the Nashville Predators, showcasing his speed and skill despite the team suffering a 2-1 loss to the Anaheim Ducks. Acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Luke Schenn and Tommy Novak, Bunting displayed promising offensive potential with one shot on goal in 15 minutes of ice time. He played alongside Fedor Svechkov and Jakob Vrana, who scored a power play goal to tie the game. Bunting's performance was well-received by his teammates, indicating a bright future for the Predators.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are making a concerted effort to revive their struggling season, having recently traded forward Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. With a disheartening record of 24-31-10 and playoff odds that seem virtually nonexistent, these trades reflect a dual strategy of immediate improvement and long-term planning. The addition of experienced players like Schenn is aimed at solidifying their defense, while Novak's scoring potential adds depth to the offense, which has been inconsistent this season.

Penguins General Manager Kyle Dubas emphasized that the team's trades are targeted, addressing specific needs rather than making flashy moves for the sake of appearances. With the upcoming schedule featuring challenging opponents, including the Vegas Golden Knights, the Penguins are hoping the new acquisitions can foster a late-season push, even if their playoff chances appear slim.

Pittsburgh Penguins President Kyle Dubas made significant moves just before the March 7 NHL trade deadline, trading forward Michael Bunting and a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Nashville Predators for defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. The Penguins also sent defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks for a 2028 fifth-round pick. Dubas highlighted Novak's youth, cap-friendly contract, and playmaking ability as key factors in acquiring him, while Schenn's experience and toughness were seen as critical for the team's playoff push.

Novak, 27, is expected to serve as a valuable third-line center, boasting 13 goals and 22 points in 52 games this season. Meanwhile, Schenn, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, brings leadership and defensive skills, having a cap hit of $2.75 million through the end of the 2025-26 season. These transactions mark the beginning of a busy trade period for Dubas, who is confident in making further impactful adjustments as the Penguins aim to return to contention.

The Pittsburgh Penguins made significant roster moves by trading forward Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators and defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks. In exchange for Bunting, who has a respectable 29 points this season, the Penguins acquired defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. Bunting, currently recovering from appendectomy surgery, has shown promise but his recent injury raises questions about his future contributions.

Luke Schenn, a seasoned defenseman, adds depth to the Penguins' blueline, although his recent performances have not been particularly impactful. Novak's inclusion in the trade brings a younger perspective, and his scoring potential could provide needed support to the Penguins’ offense.

Desharnais' trade to the Sharks was more of a move to clear space, as he struggled to make a mark in Pittsburgh. Overall, these trades highlight the Penguins' strategy to retool their lineup with an eye towards maximizing their playoff chances while managing the salary cap effectively.