Breaking News: Predators Make Shocking Move by Placing Dante Fabbro on Waivers – What Does This Mean for His Future?

In a surprising turn of events, the Nashville Predators have placed defenseman Dante Fabbro on waivers, signaling a potential shift in the team’s strategy. Reports from Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman confirm that the 26-year-old blueliner's future with the team is now uncertain.

Fabbro, who once seemed like a guaranteed mainstay on the Predators' blue line, has faced significant challenges over the past few seasons. Between 2019-20 and 2021-22, he averaged more than 19 minutes of ice time per game and even posted an impressive 24 points during the 2021-22 season. At that time, his $2.4 million salary was regarded as a steal for the Predators.

However, the tides have turned for the young defenseman. His playing time has sharply declined, averaging only 17:27 per game in 2022-23 and further dropping to 16:21 last season. This season, Fabbro has seen an even more alarming decrease, averaging just 13:06 per game in his six appearances, during which he has failed to register any points. Remarkably, he has been a healthy scratch for the Predators in eight other games this season, adding to the uncertainty around his role with the team.

Fabbro is currently in the final year of a one-year contract worth $2.5 million, which he signed at last year's trade deadline. The deal has kept his salary consistent without the potential uncertainty of approaching arbitration eligibility, a situation that could have made him a non-tender candidate if he had remained unsigned.

Despite the challenges, Fabbro could be an appealing option for teams that are operating under tight salary caps. A number of rebuilding teams might view this as an opportunity to gauge Fabbro’s potential long-term value, possibly flipping him for assets around the March 7th trade deadline after increasing his credibility with some playtime and performance. With over 300 NHL games to his name, he could serve as a valuable addition for teams in need of defensive depth and experience.

NHL teams have until 1 PM CT on Sunday to make their claims on Fabbro. Will he find a new home, or will he remain a forgotten asset in the Nashville organization? All eyes are on this young defenseman as the waiver wire ticks down – and it could be a pivotal moment in his career. Stay tuned for updates!