We are here for another edition of NHL Rumours, as the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is fast approaching, next Friday, March 6th. This one is a hot spot when it comes to potential sellers, and we visit the Nashville Predators. So, let’s find out who might just be available, and where might be his landing spots.
NHL Rumours and Stamkos Has a Couple Choice Locations
Rumour: The TSN Insider Pierre LeBrun is reporting that Stamkos has listed three teams that he would consider as destinations given his powerful no-move clause.
Analysis: Unfortunately in Nashville, an optimistic situation has not turned out. Therefore, a veteran, and former, two-time Stanley Cup champ, might consider wanting out. And why not?
The rumour itself is a bit cloudy. Pierre LeBrun has certainly had to dive in deep to figure out the murky details from Tennessee.
Stamkos actually had to say that he does enjoy Nashville. That makes sense, it is a friendly and fun town to raise your family, and is he is committed. However, as LeBrun alluded to, Stamkos’ camp would very likely anticipate the team comes to him, looking for a place to go to. Therefore, given Stamkos’ no-move clause on his contract, he did list of three places apparently he would be willing to go. Those three teams include the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Dallas Stars, and the Minnesota Wild. In other words, he wants to win.
This Could Be a Major Play for the Playoffs
These teams all make sense. Tampa would provide a sense of trust, having been captain there and winning championships. However, they only have $3.15 million in estimated salary cap space at the deadline. They would need to make some moves to truly be a final landing spot. The Wild make sense, as they are willing to play ball. Jesper Wallstedt is said to be available as trade bait. They have locked up Kirill Kaprizov to the richest contract in NHL history and landed Quinn Hughes via trade. Meanwhile, Dallas did just have an injury to Mikko Rantanen, and Tyler Seguin was just put on season-ending long-term injured reserve. They will want to add a piece to load up for a run.
Steven Stamkos is the type of leader that could’ve played his way to Team Canada in 2025-26. Unfortunately, he had a very slow start to the season. In his first 14 games, he had but one goal. However, since that time, his fortunes have certainly turned around. He scored four goals in one game, and netted a hat trick in another. After that slow start, he is now up to 29 goals. Furthermore, he is a guy with over 100 career playoff points. He’s a gamer, and would be a great depth add for any team. Of course, his $8 million price tags means that teams might have to show their cards, before they can make a tangible offer.
Let’s be clear, from what Stamkos has announced publicly, he has not confirmed giving a list of three teams. This is more about what LeBrun has heard himself, and does make sense, logistically, financially, and likely personally for the one they call Stammer. The Preds have also been linked to possible trades involving centre Ryan O’Reilly. So, when and if Predator acting general manager (as he just announced his retirement) Barry Trotz goes to Stamkos asking for perspective landing spots, don’t be surprised if something meaningful comes of it.
Main Photo Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
