The Nashville Predators have taken an aggressive approach to the start of NHL free agency, shelling out a whopping $108.5 million to secure the services of three prominent players. According to multiple reports, the Predators have successfully signed Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and ex-Rangers defenseman Brady Skjei.

Steven Stamkos, a long-time star for the Tampa Bay Lightning, joins the Predators on a four-year, $32 million contract. The 34-year-old forward, who has spent his entire 16-year NHL career with the Lightning, expressed his gratitude to Tampa Bay for his time there. Stamkos had an impressive season, scoring 40 goals and 41 assists in 79 games. With 1,137 points in his career, he adds significant offensive firepower to the Predators' lineup. Notably, Stamkos was part of the Lightning's back-to-back Stanley Cup championship teams in 2020 and 2021.

Jonathan Marchessault, who spent the last seven seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights, has signed a five-year, $27.5 million contract with Nashville. The 33-year-old forward is coming off a career-high season, where he netted an impressive 42 goals. During his time in Vegas, Marchessault racked up 192 goals and 225 assists. He catapulted his team to their first-ever Stanley Cup victory last year, clinching the Conn Smythe trophy with 13 goals and 12 assists in the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Predators have also bolstered their defense by acquiring Brady Skjei, a skilled defenseman who spent the last four-plus seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes. Skjei, 30, signed a generous seven-year, $49 million contract with Nashville. He had a standout season, recording a career-high 47 points. Skjei's addition to the Predators' defensive unit further strengthens their backline and adds valuable experience to the team.

These signings come as Nashville aims to bounce back from a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks. The Predators have not won a playoff series since the first round in 2018 and are determined to make a deep postseason run once again.

With the arrival of Stamkos, Marchessault, and Skjei, the Predators have significantly upgraded their roster, injecting talent and experience into their lineup. Nashville fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, as these new acquisitions bring renewed hope for a successful playoff campaign.