The Predators, who haven’t advanced past the playoffs’ opening round since 2018, bolstered their lineup by acquiring former Carolina defenseman Brady Skjei as they began preparations for the 2024-25 season.
Steven Stamkos, a two-time Stanley Cup champion who spent his entire 16-year NHL career with the Tampa Bay Lightning, signed a four-year contract worth $32 million with Nashville. Last season, Stamkos contributed 40 goals and 41 assists for the Lightning.
“Thank you, Tampa. I don’t have the words yet… I will soon,” Stamkos shared on social media. “It’s still too early to process. Just wanted everyone to know how thankful we are for 16 years as a Bolt. My family and I are excited for the next chapter.”
Joining Stamkos in Nashville is 33-year-old right wing Jonathan Marchessault, signing a five-year deal valued at $27.5 million. Marchessault was the Conn Smythe Trophy winner as the Most Valuable Player during the Vegas Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup run in 2023. He had stints with Tampa Bay and Florida before becoming an original member of the Golden Knights, tallying 230 goals and 257 assists in 638 NHL games.
Brady Skjei secured a seven-year contract worth $49 million to energize the Predators. Last season, Nashville posted a 47-30 record with five overtime losses but fell to Vancouver in the first round of the playoffs.
Since their 2017 Stanley Cup Final defeat to Pittsburgh, the Predators haven’t returned to the championship series.
