Predators land Bourque in cap-smart swap that reshapes Nashville’s offense

The Nashville Predators acquired forward Mavrik Bourque and defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin from the Dallas Stars in exchange for Nashville’s 2027 second-round pick and Vegas’ 2028 third-rounder. Bourque, 24, posted 41 points in 82 games last season and could slot into a top-six role, while Lyubushkin provides reliable depth on the third pair. The deal helps Dallas clear cap space ahead of pursuing or re-signing Jason Robertson and gives Nashville a potential boost for secondary scoring, with Bourque and fellow RFAs in contract talks and about $14M in cap room available. The move signals a rapid roster reshaping under new GM Chris MacFarland.