Hockey

Predators’ Erik Haula Set to Become Unrestricted Free Agent This Week

by
Richard Hayes
July 1, 2026

The Nashville Predators are poised to lose center Erik Haula to the free agency market this Wednesday. After completing a three-year, $9.45 million contract, Haula will officially become an unrestricted free agent, as the Predators have opted not to extend him a qualifying offer.

At 35 years old, Haula played a pivotal role in the Predators’ lineup last season, notching 38 points in 81 games while serving as a key player in the team’s bottom six. He joined Nashville last June in a trade that sent Jeremy Hanzel and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to the Arizona Coyotes.

Haula’s contributions extended beyond the NHL, as he represented Finland at the 2026 Winter Olympics, where he scored six points—three goals and three assists—across six games, helping his team clinch a bronze medal.

According to NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, there are rumors that Haula might be headed to Los Angeles, a potential move that could reshape his career once again. This marks Haula’s second stint with the Predators; he previously played for the team during the 2020-21 season, where he recorded 21 points in 51 games.

With Haula’s impending departure, General Manager Chris MacFarland has chosen to bring in younger talent, signing Jack Drury to a five-year, $22.5 million contract to fill the center role in the bottom six. The Predators are also facing changes among their other free agents, as Tyson Jost, who was claimed off waivers in the 2025-26 preseason on a one-year, $775,000 contract, did not receive a qualifying offer. Jost played in 69 games, contributing eight goals and eight assists for a total of 16 points.

Defenseman Kevin Gravel, who saw limited action with just one game played for Nashville last season, also did not receive a qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent after finishing a two-year, $1.555 million deal. In contrast, restricted free agent defenseman Justin Barron and newly acquired forward Chase Bradley were both extended qualifying offers on Tuesday.

NHL free agency kicks off on Wednesday at 11 a.m. CST, marking a significant moment for both the Predators and players like Haula as they explore new opportunities in the league.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.

Richard Hayes

Richard Hayes is the go-to writer for all things soccer at 21Sports.com. His international perspective and in-depth knowledge of the game have made him a trusted voice in the industry. Richard’s experience covering major leagues around the world allows him to offer unique insights that resonate with both casual fans and die-hard enthusiasts. When not covering matches, Richard enjoys coaching youth soccer in his community.