The New Jersey Devils have hit a rough stretch as injuries continue to pile up. They’ve now dropped five straight games, including a 4–1 loss to the Boston Bruins on Saturday. With a 16–12–1 record, they’ve slipped to third-last in the Metropolitan Division.
Looking to stabilize their lineup, the Devils have been exploring trade options. Quinn Hughes has been a name tied to them for weeks, and now a $32 million All-Star has entered the rumor mill as well.
Devils Showing Interest in $32M All-Star Forward
New Jersey’s injury situation continues to worsen, with Jack Hughes, Brett Pesce, Zack MacEwen, and Jonathan Kovacevic all on injured reserve. As the Devils look for help, Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos has surfaced as a possible trade option. The seven-time All-Star is currently in the second year of his four-year, $32 million deal.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun talked about the Devils’ situation in The Athletic. “My understanding is that the New Jersey Devils have discussed his name internally, among many other trade targets,” LeBrun said. “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.”
A look at what’s on and not on the agenda for the NHL’s Board of Governors meeting starting Monday in Colorado Springs. Plus Stamkos and Sherwood and more in latest Rumblings for @TheAthletic ⤵️ https://t.co/mHkSiPgczw
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) December 5, 2025
Stamkos has struggled to produce in his second season with Nashville. After signing his big contract in 2024, expectations were high, but he’s managed just 11 points in 28 games, fueling speculation about his future.
Still, he could be a valuable addition for the Devils, especially with Jack Hughes sidelined. A change of scenery might be exactly what Stamkos needs, and his veteran presence could help boost New Jersey’s offense.
LeBrun also said there is no guarantee that Stamkos will be moved this season, as he also holds a full no-move clause. However, “the Nashville Predators, as previously reported, would definitely listen to calls on him,” he added.
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Whether Nashville decides to move Stamkos remains uncertain. On the other hand, Quinn Hughes remains a key trade topic after acknowledging possible talks between the Canucks and Devils, “I’m aware that things like that could happen”, though no deal seems imminent.
