The Nashville Predators have appointed Rob Blake as their new executive vice president of hockey operations, as announced by newly appointed GM Chris MacFarland. MacFarland expressed excitement over Blake's addition, highlighting his extensive management experience. Blake previously served as GM for the Los Angeles Kings, helping the team become a playoff contender. He shared his enthusiasm to join a team with a significant history and bright future in Nashville. The partnership between Blake and MacFarland aims to propel the Predators back into playoff contention.

By the Numbers
  • Blake was GM of the Kings from 2017 until the end of the 2024-25 season.
  • During his tenure, he helped restore the Kings to consistent playoff contention.
Yes, But

Blake's recent departure from the Kings came after a disappointing playoff run, where the team faced four consecutive losses to the Edmonton Oilers. While he has the experience, there are questions about whether he can replicate past successes with the Predators.

State of Play
  • The Predators are currently seeking to improve their performance in the Western Conference.
  • MacFarland was also recently hired to replace long-time coach Barry Trotz.
What's Next

As Blake and MacFarland work together, they plan to focus on rebuilding the team into a playoff contender and evaluate current players to identify areas for improvement. Future trades or acquisitions may be on the horizon to further strengthen the team's roster.

Bottom Line

The Predators have taken a significant step by hiring Rob Blake, aiming to leverage his experience to enhance their performance and return to playoff glory. The success of this partnership will largely depend on their ability to make impactful changes and build a cohesive team moving forward.