Steven Stamkos: A Career Retrospective – From Tampa Bay to Nashville

In a recent appearance on NHL Now’s Players Only, Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos sat down with Mike Rupp and Brian Boyle to reflect on his remarkable career. The conversation spanned his entire tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning and his exciting new chapter in Nashville. Stamkos’ journey is a testament to dedication, skill, and a passion for the game.

From Lightning Legend to Predator

Steven Stamkos spent the vast majority of his NHL career with the Tampa Bay Lightning, becoming a franchise icon. Drafted first overall in 2008, he quickly established himself as a premier goal scorer and leader. His impact on the Lightning was undeniable, culminating in a Stanley Cup victory in 2020. The transition to Nashville marks a new and exciting phase for the veteran forward.

Recent NHL Highlights (January 14, 2026)

While Stamkos’ career was the focus of the Players Only segment, the NHL landscape continues to deliver thrilling moments. Here’s a quick recap of some notable games from January 14, 2026:

• NSH@COL: Ryan O’Reilly achieved his 7th career hat trick, scoring three goals in the first two periods.
• FLA@CAR: Nikolaj Ehlers found the back of the net for his sixth NHL hat trick.
• TBL@STL: Hofer and Kyrou led the Blues to a shootout victory over the Lightning.
• ANA@LAK: Quinton Byfield gave the Kings the lead in the opening period.
• NSH@COL: Colton Nelson redirected a shot for his second goal of the game.
• NSH@COL: Ryan O’Reilly scored early, popping the puck under the crossbar.
• SJS@DET: Dylan Larkin buried a backhand for the lead.
• TBL@STL: Neighbours scored while falling to the ice, opening the scoring.
• FLA@CAR: Ehlers scored a stunning snap shot to open the scoring.
• SJS@DET: Smith scored in tight on a backhand.
• SJS@DET: DeBrincat snapped home a power-play goal.
• TOR@VGK: Jack Eichel completed a comeback for the Golden Knights in overtime.
• MTL@BUF: Tage Thompson recorded a remarkable 5-point night in the Sabres’ victory.
• TOR@VGK: Hill made an incredible save on McMann.
• NYI@EDM: Barzal assisted on Duclair’s opening power-play goal, reaching a milestone point.
• TOR@VGK: Eichel set up Hertl in the final seconds of the third period.
• SJS@WSH: Celebrini set up Regenda with a no-look pass.
• WPG@MIN: Pearson and Morrissey scored within eight seconds of each other.
• PHI@PIT: Sidney Crosby ripped in a power-play goal at an angle.
• MTL@BUF: Thompson notched his ninth NHL hat trick, his first against the Canadiens.
• SEA@BOS: The Bruins honored Zdeno Chara with a number retirement ceremony.
• WPG@MIN: Morrissey scored from the point in the waning seconds of the first period.
• CGY@CHI: Backlund buried a shorthanded goal on a breakaway.
• WPG@MIN: Toews scored a power-play goal for his 900th career point.
• SEA@BOS: Khusnutdinov kicked off the scoring less than a minute into the game.

The Florida Panthers also recently visited the White House, a testament to their success and contribution to the sport.

Looking Ahead for Stamkos

As Steven Stamkos embarks on this new chapter with the Nashville Predators, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued impact on the ice. His leadership and scoring prowess will undoubtedly be valuable assets to his new team. You can find more information about Stamkos and the NHL at NHL.com.