Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz did not believe Philip Tomasino would clear waivers. The trade ensured the team would get something for him.

In 2022, the Predators waived forward Eeli Tolvanen, a 2017 first-round pick, who was picked up by the Seattle Kraken. Going back even further, Nashville traded 2014 first-round pick Kevin Fiala to the Minnesota Wild in 2019 and 2013 first-round pick Seth Jones to Columbus in 2016.

It’s not an apples-to-apples comparison. Maybe apples-to-hot dogs. But the Pittsburgh Penguins traded for a right winger named Phil who is looking for a fresh start. In 2015, they brought in All-Star forward Phil Kessel,