3 Potential Trade Destinations for Predators' Steven Stamkos
The Nashville Predators remain a team to watch on the NHL's trade market, as general manager Chris MacFarland has made a whopping 10 trades since he took over in June. The Preds GM has made it clear as day and has been very direct to his veterans, if the team struggles this season and isn't securely in a Stanley Cup Playoff spot, there will be a complete tear down.
Pierre LeBrun: Re Predators: Here’s what I will infer, I think Chris MacFarland was pretty direct with [the veterans]...that if they get off to a slow start this year...and they’re not in playoff contention, that there could be a lot of change - Early Trading (10/8)
Recently we discussed Ryan O'Reilly being linked to the Bruins, Canadiens and Maple Leafs, and now we turn our attention to Steven Stamkos. Stammer has turned back the clock this season, and looks like his old self, posting three goals and six points in four games. Stamkos is signed through next season at $8 million AAV, and owns a no-movement clause, having full say in his future. There's a few teams that have been speculated as team's he'd consider, so let's dive into a few potential trade destinations for the future hall of famer:
New Jersey Devils
The Devils have kicked tires on Stamkos in the past, and GM Sunny Mehta will be aggressive this season heading into the trade market. Stamkos is versatile to play down the middle or the wing, and could be the veteran presence the team needs to get over the hump. Stammer's a winner, and if the Devils can get on track, they'd be a very interesting destination to consider.
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens are looking for a right-handed forward for their top six, and have been linked to Stamkos for over two years now. They have the prospects and picks to get the job done, and we just saw these two teams make a trade earlier this week. MacFarland is currently going to circle the Canadiens organizational depth, and Montreal seems like a legit team Stamkos would consider joining.
Edmonton Oilers
Oilers would need to get very creative to make the trade work financially, but there's certainly a very good chance they'd be interested in adding Stamkos to their top six. The Oilers have Isaac Howard, Matt Savoie, and Beau Akey who could entice MacFarland and the Preds. Salary retention would be in play here, so the price tag will be very significant out of Nashville.
Three teams worth keeping on the radar include the Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, and Carolina Hurricanes.