The Dallas Stars have put themselves in a strong position as the season moves closer to the trade deadline. Their recent results have kept them near the top of the standings and strengthened their push for a deep playoff run.
That position has also placed them in trade discussions involving experienced players. One of those names has to come up, even as his current team remains in the race.
Dallas Stars Emerge as Top Trade Fit for Steven Stamkos Ahead of NHL Deadline
The Dallas Stars have been linked to Steven Stamkos as the trade deadline approaches, mainly because of their need for added scoring depth.
Stamkos is currently with the Nashville Predators and is in the second year of a four-year, $32,000,000 contract that carries an $8,000,000 cap hit each season. His deal runs through the 2027-28 season and includes a full no-movement clause, which gives him full control over any possible trade.
Recent speculation suggested that the veteran forward could be open to a move to a contender, but Stamkos addressed that directly. Speaking to The Tennessean on Friday, he addressed the ongoing trade talks and denied any internal discussions about a move.
“I haven’t talked to (GM Barry Trotz) at all about that,” Stamkos said. “Obviously, there’s stuff that gets reported, but what I’ll say, with this group, we want to be together. I can only control what I can control, but I love being here.”
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NHL insider Pierre LeBrun explained how the situation depends fully on the player’s decision. In his The Athletic column, he wrote, “Steven Stamkos has full control over his NHL future, so all roads go through him and his camp ahead of next Friday’s 3 p.m. ET trade deadline.”
LeBrun also noted that while Stamkos is comfortable in Nashville, he understands how the league’s business side works.
LeBrun added more context about how things could develop depending on the Predators’ direction. He wrote, “If the Predators start selling parts and approach him with trade scenarios, he’ll be prepared for that conversation.”
LeBrun also mentioned that Stamkos would likely consider only a short list of teams if he ever changed his position, naming the Dallas Stars, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Minnesota Wild as strong fits, with the New Jersey Devils also in the mix.
From Dallas’ point of view, the interest makes sense because the team is dealing with Tyler Seguin’s absence for the rest of the season and playoffs. Adding a player like Stamkos would give them more experience and scoring options in their top-six group as they prepare for the postseason.
READ MORE: Former Oilers Winger Named Among Trade Deadline Targets
At the same time, Nashville’s position in the standings has changed the overall situation. The Predators are close in the playoff race, which reduces the likelihood they will move key players before the deadline. That shift, along with Stamkos’ position, makes a trade unlikely at this stage.
For now, Stamkos remains focused on Nashville, and his contract terms allow him to control any decision about his future.
