Poile 'certain' Predators have one of NHL's best defenses
David Poile is pumped.
The Nashville Predators general manager acquired P.K. Subban on Wednesday in a trade for Shea Weber, and his team got younger and more electric in the process.
"He is the modern-day defenseman," Poile said of Subban, who's currently vacationing in Paris. "Today, after the trade, I am certain we have one of the best defenses in the National Hockey League."
It's tough to argue. The Predators' top four includes Subban, Roman Josi, Mattias Ekholm, and Ryan Ellis.
Peter Laviolette said he could see P.K. Subban playing with either Roman Josi or Mattias Ekholm. No hard commitment.
— Adam Vingan (@AdamVingan) June 29, 2016
"This is a guy I would pay money to see," Poile added about Subban. "He is exciting."
Poile on why now was the time to trade Shea Weber, despite longstanding rumors: "It was the player. Period." Referring to P.K. Subban.
— Adam Vingan (@AdamVingan) June 29, 2016
Poile also called Subban "offensively an equal" to Weber, but also saluted his former captain, who until Wednesday was a lifelong Predator.
"Shea Weber is probably one of the best players, if not the best player in our franchise history," Poile said.
It's been a busy week for Poile. He signed Filip Forsberg to a long-term contract extension Monday.
Head coach Peter Laviolette said he and Poile will sit down and discuss which Predator will be next to wear the "C."