Rumors are intensifying around Steven Stamkos' future with the Nashville Predators, as the team's underwhelming start to the season has sparked speculation about potential trades involving the veteran forward. Despite joining the Predators with high expectations last summer, Stamkos has struggled to replicate the success he enjoyed during his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Several factors are contributing to the swirling rumors. Stamkos' current performance, with only two points in 13 games and a minus-6 rating, has raised concerns about his ability to contribute at the level the Predators had hoped for. Some analysts suggest that the absence of elite playmakers, such as Nikita Kucherov, has hampered his scoring touch. A switch to center has also given him more puck possession but also more defensive attention, limiting his scoring opportunities. His career-low 3.6% shooting percentage, a significant drop from his Tampa Bay days, further underscores this point.
Adding fuel to the fire, insiders like Jeff Marek believe a change is needed, and Elliotte Friedman has suggested that the Predators might be open to a deal under the right circumstances. However, any trade would hinge on Nashville's asking price, Stamkos' willingness to waive his no-move clause, and the team's willingness to retain a portion of his salary. Stamkos has two seasons left on his four-year contract with an annual value of $8 million.
Several teams have emerged as potential destinations for Stamkos, including the Vancouver Canucks and the Montreal Canadiens. Both teams are reportedly seeking a second-line center, and Stamkos' experience and offensive capabilities could be valuable assets. The Carolina Hurricanes could also accommodate Stamkos' $8-million cap hit without clearing cap space.
The Vancouver Canucks have a question mark at the 2C position. With another injury to a forward, the Canucks find themselves with a hole in the lineup. Cam Robinson, the Senior Director of Hockey Media Relations at Elite Prospects, confirmed on X that he heard a few people mention that the Vancouver Canucks may have talked to the Nashville Predators about Steven Stamkos.
The Montreal Canadiens are also looking for a good second center to complement and support Ivan Demidov.
Despite the on-ice struggles, Stamkos and his wife have been making themselves at home in Nashville, purchasing land and planning to build a new home with the intention of retiring there. "I don't want to put a percentage on it, but it's a plan that we have, and plans change, obviously,” Stamkos said. “Things can happen, but it's certainly a place that my wife and I would love to be".
As the season progresses, the rumors surrounding Stamkos' future are likely to persist. Whether he remains in Nashville, is traded to a contender, or even makes a return to Tampa Bay remains to be seen.
