"You get all sorts of different things going through your mind this time of year," Poile said. "How well is your team playing? Are you positioned to just make the playoffs or are you positioned to go further in the playoffs? I think we have a really good team, I think we've got a good chance to compete at the highest level - meaning we could compete for the Cup - and I want to do everything I can to give us that opportunity. Now, what's the cost?"
Timing also plays a huge factor in the decision-making process, Poile said.
"I've said often, and I really do believe, that if you know what you want to get and you can get that, get out ahead of it. But, you might pay a premium to do that," Poile said. "If you can show a lot of patience, and maybe there are multiple players you'd be interested in, maybe your best deal is in the last hour before the trade deadline."
After acquiring former Preds forward Cody McLeod from the New York Rangers and Brian Boyle from the New Jersey Devils earlier this month, Poile is still looking at the potential of adding addition pieces to his roster by Monday afternoon's 2 p.m. (CT) deadline.
"Nothing's changed, because we haven't made too many moves. We added Cody McLeod and we added Brian Boyle, but I think those are good moves in terms of depth, which we clearly need in the playoffs," Poile said. "It's pretty much a war, and any time that we've had any success going any distance in the playoffs, it's always been with a lot more of the 20 players you get to dress for any one game."
Despite closer League standings making less and less players available in the trade market, Poile is closely monitoring for any potential acquisitions.
"It's hard to see the buyers and sellers changing very much," Poile said. "But, that's why you've got to stay in touch with everybody and make sure that you're on top of it. You have to make sure that you're aware of all the players available in case they actually do fit what you're looking for."
Listen to the full podcast interview with GM David Poile
here.
