Trade chatter suddenly picking up steam surrounding Stanley Cup champion Steven Stamkos
Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Steven Stamkos had previously expressed his desire to remain in Nashville, but the trade deadline chatter is getting louder by the minute.
Pierre LeBrun is reporting that as of Thursday, three to four Eastern Conference clubs have kicked the tires on the veteran sniper. The phone lines are hot.
The 36-year-old center has 30 goals in 61 games this season. That kind of offensive output is exactly what contenders are begging for down the stretch.
He wants to stay in the Music City. He signed a four-year deal in 2024 and has been vocal about honoring that commitment to the fans.
But the reality is the Predators are sitting with a -28 goal differential. They are barely treading water in the Western Conference playoff race.
A return to the East makes sense if he decides to waive his no-movement clause. Winning a third Stanley Cup is the ultimate motivation for any veteran.
The Contenders Lining Up
You have to look at the Tampa Bay Lightning first. Over his NHL career, he built a Hall of Fame legacy in that sweater.
A reunion would be poetic, but the math is incredibly complicated. Stamkos carries a massive $8.0 million cap hit that most teams cannot absorb.
The New Jersey Devils are another fascinating landing spot. They need a proven leader to help stabilize their locker room before the playoffs begin.
With 47 points already in the bank, Stamkos can still run a power play like few others in the Show. He is absolutely lethal from the left circle.
Nashville general manager Barry Trotz has some very tough decisions to make. Retaining salary is the only way a massive blockbuster gets across the finish line.
If the Predators eat half of that cap hit, the return package goes from a mid-grade package to at least one, possibly two, premium assets. Teams will gladly pay up for financial flexibility.
It all comes down to what the player wants. He has complete control over his destiny and will not be pressured into packing his bags.
Watch the waiver wire and cap gymnastics over the next 48 hours. If the right deal falls into place, the Eastern Conference power structure shifts entirely.
Also read on Blade of steel :
Concern in Buffalo: Reported Colton Parayko trade results in a bizarre turn of events
Concern in Buffalo: Reported Colton Parayko trade results in a bizarre turn of events