Steven Stamkos’s season with the Nashville Predators has not gone according to plan.
The 35-year-old center, who signed in July 2024 to help the team push for postseason success, has struggled early in his second season with the franchise. In 13 games this season, he has scored just one goal and one assist for two points. His plus-minus sits at minus-six, averaging over 17 minutes of ice time per game.
Stamkos remains a respected veteran in the locker room, offering valuable experience to Nashville’s roster. The team signed him to a four-year, $32 million contract running through the 2027–28 season- a clear show of faith in his proven track record. However, as his production declines, trade rumors have started to surface once again.
Could the Canadiens Really Trade for Stamkos? Fans Up In Arms
Trade chatter picked up after NHL insider Jeff Marek mentioned Stamkos as a possible fit for the Montreal Canadiens.
Marek brought up the idea while talking about Montreal’s need for help after Patrik Laine’s injury. Laine will miss 3-4 months following core muscle surgery.
“I could wonder about the Canucks, and I could wonder, now that Patrik Laine is out, I could wonder about the Canadiens too; something probably has to give here,” Marek said on the Sekeres & Price podcast.
Jeff Marek: Re Steven Stamkos rumours: I could wonder about the Canucks, and I could wonder now that Patrik Laine is out, I could wonder about the Canadiens too; something probably has to give here – Sekeres & Price (11/1)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) November 2, 2025
That comment sparked a flurry of reactions from Canadiens fans on X. Many were quick to dismiss the idea of trading for Stamkos.
“As a Habs fan, I will say this: In my wildest dreams, I would love to have Stamkos (and other great players) on my team, but I don’t think that’s going to happen. However, this is the NHL and we’ve seen crazy things happen in the past,” one fan wrote.
“Three more years at eight mil while being a ghost of his former self? No, thank you,” another fan posted, reacting strongly.
One fan went even further, saying, “If Habs did this, I’d stop cheering for them.”
Some fans focused on the money and logistics.
“No way Habs are on him 😂 they would need to eat half that cap to be worth it and give something cause we took on that bad contract. 53pts last year, 2pts in 12 games this year. He’s done. Reminds me of Laine. Wouldn’t touch him,” one wrote.
“Old, washed, overpaid, and he doesn’t even play C anymore. Hard pass from the Habs,” a fan commented.
Earlier in October, Stamkos spoke to The Athletic about putting the past behind him and focusing on a fresh start with Nashville.
“Last year was last year,” he said. “We talked about it as a group and decided that it was in the rear view… This year, there was more excitement going to camp with maybe less expectations and just the mentality of whatever happens, leave it in the past and let’s just move forward.”
For now, Stamkos is staying focused on helping the Predators, while Canadiens fans have made their opinion clear.
They respect his career, but they don’t see him as part of Montreal’s future.
READ MORE: Canadiens Insider Warns Against Rushing Move for $19M Bruins Star Seen As ‘Best Fit’ for 2C Role
stamkos &crosby,.. refugees from the geriatric ward