Predators Acquire Nils Höglander from Canucks for 3rd-Round Pick

Newly appointed Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Chris MacFarland struck again on Monday, acquiring 25-year-old winger Nils Höglander from the Vancouver Canucks.  

In exchange for the high-energy Swedish forward, who has two years remaining on a contract that carries a $3 million average annual value, the Canucks receive a 2029 third-round pick (originally belonging to the Colorado Avalanche).

Höglander endured a frustrating and injury-plagued 2025-26 campaign, managing just five points (two goals, three assists) in 38 games for a struggling Canucks squad. However, MacFarland is clearly banking on the player who erupted for a career-high 24 even-strength goals just two seasons ago. 

At 5-foot-9, Höglander plays much larger than his frame suggests. He is renowned for his relentless motor, tenacious forechecking, and ability to win puck battles below the goal line. He fits perfectly into the fast-paced, high-effort identity the Predators are building. Joining recent forward additions like Jack Drury and Ross Colton, Höglander injects youthful energy and slick hands into a drastically revamped Nashville bottom six.