The Carolina Hurricanes have hit a bit of a lull after an early-season surge in 2025-26. Their recent loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday marked their third defeat in four games, raising concerns about a potential losing streak. While it’s still early in the season, talks about possible trades have already started gaining traction.

One player who could attract interest from other teams is Andrei Svechnikov. The former No. 2 overall pick is only 25 years old, making a trade seem unlikely. However, Svechnikov has just one goal in nine games this season and went eight games without scoring. Despite these struggles, any trade involving Svechnikov would have to bring back a significant return for Carolina.

An intriguing trade idea was recently floated by NHL writer Adam Proteau of The Hockey News. Proteau explored potential destinations for Nashville Predators star Steven Stamkos and suggested a possible deal sending Stamkos and assets to Carolina in exchange for the Hurricanes’ 25-year-old winger.

“Like Stamkos, Svechnikov is also off to a slow start this season, with only one goal and one point in nine games, and he only averaged 50 points in the last two seasons,” wrote Proteau. “While Svechnikov is only 25, his $7.75-million salary is a near-perfect match for Stamkos’ salary. He would help Nashville try to rebound from some mediocre years, while Stamkos could be more productive for Carolina immediately. The Hurricanes still have Sebastian Aho, Nikolaj Ehlers, Seth Jarvis, Logan Stankoven, and Jackson Blake signed for the long term, anyway.”

### Predators’ Steven Stamkos Could Use a Fresh Start

Stamkos spent 16 years with the Tampa Bay Lightning before joining Nashville prior to the 2024-25 season. Coming off an impressive year where he scored 40 goals and 81 points in 79 games, expectations were high. However, Stamkos has struggled to replicate that success with the Predators.

In the 2024-25 season, he managed 27 goals and 53 points, a respectable output but below his usual standards. Nashville finished near the bottom of the league standings and missed the playoffs comfortably.

Heading into this season, Stamkos believed he was ready to contribute at a higher level again. Yet, he has only recorded one goal and one assist for two points in 11 games so far. The future Hall of Famer might benefit from a change of scenery, especially as Nashville continues to struggle. A trade away from the Predators could be on the horizon.

### Hurricanes’ Andrei Svechnikov Unlikely To Be Traded

While the Predators may explore trade options for Stamkos, a deal involving Svechnikov appears less likely. Carolina remains one of the stronger teams in the NHL, and Svechnikov’s past performance suggests he will eventually find his form.

Furthermore, the Hurricanes chose not to trade Svechnikov before July 1, resulting in a 10-team no-trade clause for the 25-year-old winger. This clause gives him considerable control over his future destination.

Beyond contractual protections, there is little incentive for Carolina to move Svechnikov. Although his current slump is concerning, the price to acquire him would likely be steep — potentially too steep for most teams to match, even if they had the cap space and assets available.

For now, the Hurricanes remain hopeful that Svechnikov can regain his scoring touch, helping the team return to its early-season success.
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