The trade, which took place on Tuesday, involved several draft picks that will reshape both teams' rosters for future seasons.

As part of the deal, the Tampa Bay Lightning acquired McDonagh in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Additionally, the Lightning received the Edmonton Oilers' fourth-round pick in the 2024 draft. This trade marks McDonagh's return to the Lightning franchise, where he previously played for five seasons and won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021.

McDonagh, a 34-year-old defenseman, had a productive season with the Predators, contributing 32 points including three goals and 29 assists in 74 games. Speaking about his return to Tampa Bay, McDonagh expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging the opportunity to reunite with familiar faces and the chance to compete once again with a proven group of winners.

Tampa Bay General Manager, Julien BriseBois, assured fans that this trade would not hinder their efforts to re-sign team captain Steven Stamkos, whose contract is set to expire soon. BriseBois emphasized that the team still maintains some cap space to secure Stamkos and address other needs during the offseason.

On the Predators' side, General Manager Barry Trotz revealed that the trade was partially influenced by a request from McDonagh himself. The respected defenseman expressed his desire to return to Tampa Bay, a city that holds fond memories for him and his family. Appreciating McDonagh's leadership and character, Trotz worked closely with BriseBois to finalize a fair deal that would honor the defenseman's request.

With this trade, the Predators now hold an impressive total of nine picks in the 2024 NHL Draft, including three in the second round and two each in the third and fourth rounds. Similarly, the team will possess nine picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, comprising two picks in each of the first, second, and third rounds, and one pick in the fourth, fifth, and sixth rounds.

As the trade unfolds, both teams bid farewell to a respected player and welcome the opportunity to shape their rosters for the future. McDonagh's return to the Lightning will undoubtedly bolster their defensive lineup, adding to their already formidable core group of players.

While McDonagh himself acknowledged the difficulty of replacing him, the Predators remain confident in the leadership and talent of their remaining roster players. Trotz expressed his gratitude for McDonagh's contributions during his time with the team and highlighted his impact both on and off the ice.

Looking ahead, McDonagh acknowledged the excitement of rejoining the Lightning and reconnecting with his former teammates. He emphasized the exceptional leadership within the team and the high standards set by the coaching staff and management.

The trade marks another chapter in McDonagh's illustrious NHL career, which began with the New York Rangers before stints with the Lightning and Predators. Over his 14 seasons in the league, McDonagh has amassed an impressive 389 points, including 76 goals and 313 assists, in 928 NHL games. In postseason play, he has recorded 65 points in 191 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

As the offseason progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how these trades will shape the future of both the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Nashville Predators. With McDonagh's return, the Lightning aim to continue their success, while the Predators look to build upon their strong leadership core to further their aspirations in the NHL.