Predators Sign Steven Stamkos, Two Other Stars

The Nashville Predators made a significant impact during NHL free agency by signing forward Steven Stamkos, forward Jonathan Marchessault, and defenseman Brady Skjei. Stamkos, leaving the Tampa Bay Lightning after 16 seasons, agreed to a four-year deal worth $8 million annually. Marchessault, a former Conn Smythe winner with the Vegas Golden Knights, signed a five-year contract with an annual average value (AAV) of $5.5 million. Skjei, who played for the Carolina Hurricanes, secured a seven-year contract at $7 million AAV. These additions are seen as a strategic move to bolster the Predators' roster following a first-round playoff exit last season.