In a surprising turn of events, Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault have both signed contracts with the Nashville Predators, as announced on Monday. Stamkos, a renowned center, revealed to TSN that he has agreed to a four-year deal with the Predators, reportedly worth an average annual value of $8 million. Meanwhile, Marchessault, a forward who previously won the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights, also confirmed his move to the Predators.

Stamkos, who is 34 years old, had an impressive performance last season for the Tampa Bay Lightning. He tallied a total of 81 points, including 40 goals and 41 assists, in 79 regular-season games. Additionally, he contributed significantly to Tampa Bay's playoff run, scoring 16 goals and providing 12 assists in the final 18 games after the NHL Trade Deadline. Stamkos's dominant play helped the Lightning secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

"When I woke up this morning, we knew we were going to make a decision to be somewhere else, and that was exciting for my wife, our kids, and our family," Stamkos expressed to TSN. He expressed his gratitude for the Nashville Predators, who showed a tremendous amount of interest in signing him. Stamkos further added that their enthusiasm played a significant role in making his decision easier.

Joining Stamkos in Nashville is Marchessault, who also sees the Predators as the best fit for him at this stage of his career. The 34-year-old forward emphasized his desire not only to play games but to win them as well. Although Marchessault expressed disappointment over not being able to re-sign with Vegas, he acknowledged the opportunity presented by the Predators as a new challenge for him and his family.

Stamkos, considered one of the top players in the league, has had an illustrious career with the Tampa Bay Lightning. As the first overall pick in the 2008 NHL Draft, he has amassed an impressive 1,137 points, with 555 goals and 582 assists over 16 seasons, all with the Lightning. The center has also claimed the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy twice for most goals in a season and led the Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.

The Lightning's general manager, Julien BriseBois, acknowledged Stamkos's decision to test free agency, stating that both parties had attempted to reach a contract agreement, but it hadn't materialized. Stamkos's departure from Tampa Bay will undoubtedly be felt, as he holds several franchise records, including points, goals, games played, power-play goals, game-winning goals, and overtime goals.

On the other hand, Marchessault's addition to the Predators provides them with a player who has excelled both in the regular season and the playoffs. As the Conn Smythe Trophy winner for the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Marchessault's 69 points (42 goals and 27 assists) last season showcased his offensive capabilities.

The signings of Stamkos and Marchessault represent a significant boost to the Nashville Predators, who are looking to strengthen their roster and compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season. Fans of the team eagerly anticipate the duo's impact on the ice as they join forces with the rest of the Predators squad.