Rumors are heating up round New Jersey, and a new report suggests the Devils could also be eyeing a major offensive improve. In response to James Nichols of NJ Hockey Now, the group’s scoring struggles have pushed common supervisor Tom Fitzgerald to discover the commerce market — and one title producing inner dialogue is Steven Stamkos.
Pierre LeBrun added gasoline to the hypothesis in his newest column, noting the Devils have “mentioned his title internally, amongst many different commerce targets.”
This wouldn’t be the primary time Stamkos’ title has been linked to the Devils. New Jersey pursued Stamkos when he hit free company in 2024. Finally, he selected the Preds, and issues haven’t precisely panned out as each side would have hoped. This season, Stamkos has solely eight objectives and 11 factors in 27 video games.
There isn’t a indication that the Devils and Predators have engaged in direct talks at this stage.
Would Stamkos Be Open to Becoming a member of the Devils?
Stamkos arrived in Nashville alongside Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei in what was anticipated to be a franchise-shifting summer time for GM Barry Trotz. Issues have shifted, however not for the higher. The Predators stumbled, ending with simply 68 factors final season. This season, they’ve spent a very good chunk of time on the backside of the NHL standings.
Stamkos has seen his title on the market in commerce 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 curiosity gained’t imply a lot.
With the Devils nonetheless trying to find a dependable finisher to play alongside Jack Hughes or Jesper Bratt, Stamkos checks a number of containers. However with a four-year, $8 million AAV contract, he’s not the sort of commerce the Devils ought to rapidly soar into, even when he’s open to a transfer.
As for what the return can be, one must think about it wouldn’t take a lot if each Stamkos and the Predators determine the most effective factor is to maneuver on.
Subsequent: 3 Flyers Seen as Untouchable in Quinn Hughes Commerce Talks
