Steven Stamkos sets the record straight on his availability with firm trade deadline message

The veteran forward has absolutely zero interest in waiving his no-movement clause before the March 6 cutoff.

Rumors of a potential blockbuster deal ignited following a miserable stretch for Nashville, who were held scoreless twice over the last five games.

With 45 points already in the bank this season, his offensive output remains a rare bright spot in an otherwise turbulent campaign.

He signed a massive four-year contract carrying an $8 million cap hit just last summer. That lucrative deal guarantees him total control over his immediate playing destiny, and he firmly plans to exercise that right.

The Predators are currently fighting for their playoff lives, sitting just outside a wildcard spot with a mediocre 28-25-6 record.

Stamkos firmly rejected the outside noise on Thursday morning, forcing the front office to search for alternative solutions to upgrade the roster.

General Manager Barry Trotz must now look elsewhere to create cap flexibility or fetch a massive haul of future draft capital.

Over his NHL career, the legendary sniper has repeatedly proven his loyalty and flatly refuses to be treated like a deadline rental piece.

He currently leads all Nashville forwards with nine power-play goals, consistently dictating the pace on the man advantage. His steadying presence in the locker room is invaluable for a group desperate for a winning homestand.

A frustrating -3 rating during the recent road trip sparked some minor criticism from local media, but his overall elite value is undeniable.

Trotz has to pivot his strategy and focus on moving out fringe bottom-six pieces to clear space for a necessary depth addition.

With 19 goals on the year, the 36-year-old is heavily relied upon to finish scoring chances and manage controlled entries.

The trade deadline clock is ticking loudly, and the Predators are officially locked in with their prized summer acquisition for the long haul.

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