Nick Saban’s entry into the NHL marks a rare crossover of college football’s coaching acumen into professional hockey. While he acknowledges his lack of hockey experience, his focus on organizational culture, discipline, and teamwork positions him as a valuable ally for the Nashville Predators. As the franchise seeks to climb out of the bottom tier of the league, Saban’s involvement could signal the start of a new era aimed at turning the Predators into a championship contender.
Saban’s New Role with the Nashville Predators
On Monday, Saban made his first public appearance in his new capacity alongside Predators chairman Bill Haslam, a former Tennessee governor who had been exploring a WNBA expansion franchise. The Predators’ ownership structure now includes Saban and business partner Joe Agresti, who control Dream Sports Ventures LLC, an entity that also owns ten car dealerships, two of which operate in Nashville. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to building a competitive organization, with Haslam noting that Saban’s background in creating championship cultures is a “greatest no brainer” for the franchise.
Bringing Championship DNA
Haslam praised Saban’s expertise, saying, “You have somebody who understands building a championship culture, who understands, I think, better than almost anybody in sports the process that’s needed to get to where you can compete as a champion.” Saban, who grew up in West Virginia and had no exposure to hockey until coaching at Michigan State, added, “I’m no expert in hockey, so don’t look at me like I’m going to make some huge impact coaching around here because that’s not going to happen,” Saban said Monday. “But I do have a pretty good idea of what it takes to have successful organizations.”
Early Engagements and Plans
Saban has already begun immersing himself in the Predators’ ecosystem. He met general manager Barry Trotz on several occasions and stated that his goal is to support Trotz and the entire organization. During a minicamp, Saban spoke with coaches and a few players, emphasizing his role as a “transformational leader,” a phrase he used to describe his coaching style. He also noted that once the college football season concludes, he will be available to contribute as much as Haslam desires, positioning himself as a resource rather than a frontline coach. The Predators’ front office has welcomed his enthusiasm and expertise.
Saban’s Coaching Legacy and Retirement
Before turning to hockey, Saban had an illustrious coaching résumé that spans college football and the NFL. He guided Alabama to seven national championships, then spent six seasons in the NFL, first as an assistant under Bill Belichick in Cleveland and later as head coach of the Miami Dolphins. In January 2024, Saban announced his retirement from coaching on Jan. 10, 2024, marking the end of a career that earned him a reputation as a transformational leader. His decision to step away from the sidelines opened the door for his entry into the NHL, where he hopes to apply the same principles of preparation and culture.
Predators’ Recent History and Current Standing
The franchise’s most recent highlight came in 2017, when Nashville captured the Western Conference title before falling to Pittsburgh in six games of the Stanley Cup Final. That same year, the Predators earned the Presidents’ Trophy for the 2017-18 season, yet they are currently ranked 26th out of 32 NHL teams, five points shy of the second wild-card spot in the West. The team’s performance has prompted discussions about new leadership and strategic direction, making Saban’s involvement timely for a potential cultural shift.
Saban’s Perspective and Future Vision
Expressing humility about his hockey knowledge, Saban reiterated that his contribution will focus on organizational excellence rather than on-ice tactics. “To be a part of the hockey team here is something special, and we’d love to build it into a championship,” he said, echoing Haslam’s earlier sentiment about championship culture. Saban also emphasized his willingness to work closely with Trotz and other staff, offering guidance drawn from his years in college football and the NFL. He believes that the same principles of discipline, preparation, and teamwork that led Alabama to victory can be adapted to the ice rink.
Miscellaneous: Michael Ozanian’s Note
Separately, CNBC senior sports reporter Michael Ozanian explained that the University of Texas’ athletic program is valued at $1.48 billion, a figure that underscores the financial scale of collegiate sports and offers a comparative backdrop to Saban’s new venture in professional hockey.
Key Takeaways
- Saban joins Predators as minority owner, bringing championship-building expertise.
- He has met GM Barry Trotz, spoken to staff, and plans to support the organization post-football season.
- The Predators’ current 26th-place ranking highlights the urgency for cultural and strategic changes that Saban aims to support.
- Saban’s Dream Sports Ventures LLC also owns ten car dealerships, two of which are in Nashville, indicating a local business stake.
- Saban’s emphasis on culture, discipline, and teamwork aligns with the Predators’ need for a cohesive locker-room environment.
The Predators’ ownership and coaching staff will likely look to his guidance as they pursue roster changes, coaching hires, and a renewed strategic vision.
