Nashville Predators Strike Gold in NHL Free Agency with Stamkos Signing

The Nashville Predators made a big splash on the first day of NHL free agency, securing the services of star forward Steven Stamkos on a lucrative four-year contract worth $8 million per season, according to a report by TSN‘s Pierre LeBrun.

Stamkos, a seasoned 34-year-old veteran, boasts an impressive 16-season tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he amassed a staggering 555 goals and 582 assists in 1,082 games. Amid speculations during the NHL draft, reports surfaced indicating that Stamkos and the Lightning failed to reach a contractual agreement, paving the way for the sharpshooter to explore free agency.

Despite concerns regarding his age, Stamkos remains a potent offensive force on the ice. The former first overall pick in the 2008 NHL Draft has etched his name in hockey history with accomplishments such as winning the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy in 2010 and 2012, as well as capturing two coveted Stanley Cup titles with Tampa in 2020 and 2021.

With his prolific goal-scoring abilities evident with 40 goals tallied for Tampa in the previous season, Stamkos brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Nashville Predators. The addition of Stamkos significantly bolsters the Predators’ offensive repertoire, particularly elevating their power play efficiency given his track record of scoring ten or more power play goals in seven consecutive seasons and 13 times throughout his illustrious career.