Steven Stamkos has found his groove again, and it's been a sight to behold. After a rocky start to the 2025-26 season, the Nashville Predators' star forward has been lighting up the ice.
Since November 26, Stamkos has racked up 24 goals and 39 points over just 24 games. That’s second only to Connor McDavid, who just snagged the MVP title at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Talk about elite company.
Despite Stamkos' resurgence, the Predators find themselves at 26-24-7, trailing the Anaheim Ducks by four points for the second wildcard spot in the Western Conference. With the NHL Trade Deadline looming on March 6, Nashville might consider selling, and Stamkos' soaring trade value could be a pivotal factor.
Addressing the swirling trade rumors, Stamkos said, “It comes with the territory of being a team on the bubble. I’m not too worried about it.
I have a full-move clause, so I get to make a decision whenever it comes down to that. But I haven’t had any conversations about that.”
So, does the two-time Stanley Cup champ want to stay in Tennessee? “You want to win,” Stamkos emphasized.
“That’s why I signed here, to play competitive hockey. We’re in a position where we are playing meaningful games.
We’ll see what happens, but that’s the goal for sure.”
With a full no-movement clause and two years left on his contract at an $8 million cap hit, Stamkos holds the cards. Yet, given the Predators' current standing, he might consider a move to a team with better championship prospects.
Adding another layer to the drama, GM Barry Trotz has announced his retirement at the end of this season. Trotz has made it clear he’s open to all possibilities regarding trades.
“It was certainly a shock to everybody,” Stamkos said about Trotz's decision. “But it doesn’t change much in terms of what we have to do as players.”
Stamkos had a rough start with just five points in his first 22 games, marking the worst start of his career. But his recent performance alongside Ryan O'Reilly has been nothing short of spectacular. The Preds have clawed their way from the bottom of the standings as of December 1, showing they’re not out of the race yet.
As Nashville gears up to face the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night, they have five games left before the trade deadline. The next few games could be crucial in determining whether the team holds onto its key players or decides to shake things up. It's a pivotal moment for the Predators, and all eyes will be on how they navigate these next steps.