The 2025-26 NHL Trade Deadline is rapidly approaching, and one of the bigger names that could be available is Steven Stamkos. Currently, he has a no movement clause, meaning he is unable to be traded without him giving permission for a deal to happen. With the Nashville Predators on the outside of the playoff picture, they could look to unload the veteran by finding a suitable trade partner.
Let’s take a closer look at who the veteran center would waive his no movement clause for and what it would mean for the team that would acquire him.
Steven Stamkos would accept a trade to three teams
Pierre LeBrum of The Athletic is reporting that there are three teams for which Steven Stamkos would waive his full no-movement clause for. Those teams are the Tampa Bay Lightning, Minnesota Wild, and the Dallas Stars.
Stamkos is currently in the second year of a four-year, $32 million contract with the Predators, so any team that would trade for him would need to eat that number on their cap. Stamkos has been able to find the back of the net at a strong rate this season, but the 36-year-old has not been as effective on the ice.
Stamkos spent the first 16 years of his career with the Lightning before signing with the Preds ahead of the 2024-25 season. Dallas and Minnesota are each in contention for one of the playoff spots in the Central Division.
So far this season, he has recorded 45 points (29 goals, 16 assists) with a -15 goal differential when on the ice. He is now 19th in all-time goals scored with 611, and with at least two more seasons on his contract, he could continue to climb the rankings.
It will be intriguing to see what trade value Stamkos has at this point of his career, but he could be a veteran to help whichever team trades for him. With a little over a week before the NHL Trade Deadline, it will be intriguing to see if Stamkos will be moved or if he will remain with the Predators.
