Nashville Predators
Devils Quietly Exploring Major Trade Option Out of Nashville
The Devils are exploring a major scoring upgrade, internally discussing Steven Stamkos as a potential trade option ahead of the NHL deadline.
Rumors are heating up around New Jersey, and a new report suggests the Devils may be eyeing a significant offensive upgrade. According to James Nichols of NJ Hockey Now, the team’s scoring struggles have pushed general manager Tom Fitzgerald to explore the trade market — and one name generating internal discussion is Steven Stamkos.
Pierre LeBrun added fuel to the speculation in his latest column, noting the Devils have “discussed his name internally, among many other trade targets.”
This wouldn’t be the first time Stamkos’ name has been linked to the Devils. New Jersey pursued Stamkos when he hit free agency in 2024. Ultimately, he chose the Preds, and things haven’t exactly panned out as both sides would have hoped. This season, Stamkos has only eight goals and 11 points in 27 games.
There is no indication that the Devils and Predators have engaged in direct talks at this stage.
Would Stamkos Be Open to Joining the Devils?
Stamkos arrived in Nashville alongside Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei in what was expected to be a franchise-shifting summer for GM Barry Trotz. Things have shifted, but not for the better. The Predators stumbled, finishing with just 68 points last season. This season, they’ve spent a good chunk of time at the bottom of the NHL standings.
Stamkos has seen his name out there in trade rumors for weeks, if not months. He does carry a full no-move clause in his contract, so if the Devils aren’t on his radar, their interest won’t mean much.
With the Devils still searching for a reliable finisher to play alongside Jack Hughes or Jesper Bratt, Stamkos checks several boxes. But with a four-year, $8 million AAV contract, he’s not the kind of trade the Devils should quickly jump into, even if he’s open to a move.
As for what the return would be, one would have to imagine it wouldn’t take much if both Stamkos and the Predators decide the best thing is to move on.
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