3 Offseason Trade Destinations For Predators' Steven Stamkos

Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos was a popular name in the rumor mill leading up to the 2026 NHL trade deadline. The 36-year-old forward generated interest, but Nashville, of course, chose to keep him around.

However, with the Predators in a retool, Stamkos will be a trade candidate to watch during the summer. Because of this, let's look at three teams that could look to acquire Stamkos this offseason if he is made available.

New Jersey Devils

It has been an incredibly disappointing season for the Devils, and they should be looking to bolster their roster this summer because of it. They were one of the teams connected to Stamkos leading up to the deadline, and it makes sense when noting that they need another top-six forward badly. Bringing in Stamkos, who has 36 goals and 58 points in 74 games this season, would give them just that.

Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings could be a team to keep an eye on when it comes to Stamkos. They are going to have cap space to work with, and they could use another impactful forward in their top six. Bringing in Stamkos would provide them with just that, as he could slot very nicely as their second-line center. However, he would also be a fit on the wing if acquired by Detroit.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The Lightning would need to get creative to bring back Stamkos, but it would be a great story to see Stamkos return to Tampa. The Bolts have not been afraid to reunite with their former players in recent years, and Stamkos could still be a great fit on their current roster. Pending UFA forward Oliver Bjorkstrand has not been a match on the Lightning's roster, so Stamkos could fit in nicely in their top six if brought back this summer.