Nashville Predators general manager Chris MacFarland made his first move Tuesday, acquiring forward Ross Colton and prospect goaltender Isak Posch from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick and goaltender Magnus Chrona.

The deal comes two weeks after MacFarland was hired as Nashville's general manager and president of hockey operations. He previously served as Colorado's GM before departing this offseason.

Colton, who has one year remaining on his $4 million contract, posted nine goals and 24 points in 73 games last season. The veteran forward gives Nashville another proven top-nine option as the club attempts to close the gap with playoff contenders in the Western Conference.

The Predators finished four points behind the Los Angeles Kings for the final Western Conference wild-card spot last season. Nashville carries a projected $23.22 million in cap space, per PuckPedia, with an unrestricted free agent class led by forward Erik Haula.

Colorado moves Colton to address salary cap constraints after finishing with the NHL's best regular-season record before being swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. The Avalanche now project $6.979 million in cap space, per PuckPedia, with four pending unrestricted free agents on defense including Jack Ahcan, Nick Blankenburg, Brent Burns and Brett Kulak.

MacFarland figures to remain active this offseason, with substantial cap space and draft capital available to build around a veteran core featuring Filip Forsberg, Roman Josi, Jonathan Marchessault, Ryan O'Reilly, Juuse Saros and Steven Stamkos.