Special Moment for David Poile as NHL Draft Wraps Up
The Nashville Predators made a late trade to allow GM David Poile an opportunity to make one final draft pick before retiring June 30.
Special Moment for David Poile as NHL Draft Wraps UpIt has been a week of special recognition for David Poile as he steps down as the Nashville Predators' General Manager. He was recognized at the NHL Awards Monday night and by General Managers across the league during the first round of the draft. The Nashville Predators, with the help of New Jersey Devils' General Manager Tom Fitzgerald, made sure to give the retiring General Manager one final job and moment of acknowledgement Tuesday afternoon.
Fitzgerald - the first captain of the Nashville Predators franchise - traded New Jersey's 218th pick in the seventh round this afternoon to the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2024 seventh round pick. The move was made so that Poile could have a chance to select one final draft pick before retirement.
Assistant GM and Director of Scouting Jeff Kealty shared how the arrangements were made.
With the last draft pick in a career spanning 41 years, Poile selected Aiden Fink, a right winger from the Brooks Bandits in the AJHL. The entire Arena then gave David Poile one final standing ovation.
Barry Trotz officially takes over as General Manager on July 1. Poile will enjoy a well deserved retirement but remain available in an advisory capacity.