Predators’ Nyquist won’t play vs. Islanders amid trade talks

The Nashville Predators won’t have Gustav Nyquist in the lineup against the New York Islanders as the team looks to protect one of its assets for trade reasons.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports that the Minnesota Wild have been the most aggressive pursuers for Nyquist, but other teams have been in the mix.

Nyquist currently has nine goals and 21 points in 51 games this season. It’s a dip from what he was able to contribute last season, where he scored 23 goals and 75 points in 81 games.

The 35-year-old is in the final season of a two-year contract with a $3.185 million cap hit.

Nashville has struggled to match the expectations placed on them this season, sitting seventh in the Central Division and 30th in the NHL with a 21-30-7 record.