According to the NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the New Jersey Devils are interested in bringing Steven Stamkos via trade, and have discussed the move internally.
“My understanding is that the New Jersey Devils have discussed his name internally, among many other trade targets, of course. The Devils were also among the suitors for Stamkos when he was a free agent in 2024. So there’s a bit of history there. It’s something to keep an eye on as we get closer to the March 6 trade deadline,” LeBrun reports.
Although no discussions between the Devils and Nashville Predators took place, Stamkos' trade to New Jersey isn't impossible. The former first-overall pick has been at his best in the Predators' uniform since joining in 2024 from the Tampa Bay Lightning. The change of scenario is perhaps what he needs, and the Devils definitely need a forward of his caliber to help the struggling offense.
What Stamkos could bring to the table?
Stamkos (35), a seven-time All-Star and two-time Stanley Cup winner, could be the right answer on offense for the New Jersey Devils. The Devils are playing without injured Jack Hughes and have scored just six goals in the last three games, all of which were defeats.
Stamkos is not enjoying the best of times with the Predators; he recorded only 53 points in his first season with the team, and has just 11 points in the current campaign (eight goals and three assists). However, six of those 11 points came in the last five games. Stamkos' experience and goal-scoring instinct are something the Devils are desperate for at the moment.
That said, this move would make more sense than a rumored Quinn Hughes trade. Stamkos would probably have better displays if he were a part of a more talented group. The Devils are clearly a better team than the Predators, and unlike the Preds, are playoff candidates.
Financial Restrictions are not helping the Devils
The New Jersey Devils are not in a great position financially, which could be a problem in bringing Steven Stamkos to the Rock. They do have a $3.60M of cap space, but the projected cap space is negative ($-4.40M). This means the Predators would have to cover Stamkos' contract partially, which could be a problem unless the Devils find a proper solution to satisfy both parties.
Another issue is Stamkos's no-trade clause in his contract. However, if the Devils come with an offer, he could approve the trade to move to a better team. If the Predators are willing to listen to offers, the Devils must act quickly and get the legendary center.