Steven Stamkos

Early Life and Junior Career

Steven Stamkos grew up in Unionville, Ontario, within the Greater Toronto Area, and is of Macedonian and Scottish descent. He played his minor hockey for the Markham Waxers in the Ontario Minor Hockey Association's Eastern AAA Hockey League, where he was a dominant offensive force. During his time with the Waxers, Stamkos won eight consecutive OMHA titles and led his team to an OHL Cup championship in March 2006. He also participated in the prestigious 2003 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with the Waxers, and he attended Central Park Public School and later St. Brother André Catholic High School in Markham.

His minor hockey career featured future NHL teammates, including playing alongside defenceman P. K. Subban with the North York Canadiens. Following a remarkable 197-point season in 66 games with the Markham Waxers, Stamkos was selected first overall by the Sarnia Sting in the 2006 OHL Draft. He joined the Sting for the 2006-07 season and recorded 92 points (42 goals and 50 assists) in 63 games as a rookie, earning a spot on the OHL Second All-Rookie Team. Beyond his on-ice success, Stamkos was recognized for his academic dedication, winning the Bobby Smith Trophy as the OHL's scholastic player of the year.

His outstanding play that season led to selections on the OHL Second All-Star Team and the CHL First All-Star Team. He was awarded the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award while being consistently ranked as the top North American skater by NHL Central Scouting throughout the season. This solidified his status as the consensus first overall pick for the upcoming NHL draft. His performance in his NHL draft-eligible season in 2007-08 saw him top-ranked throughout the campaign by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau.

NHL Career with Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning, holding the first overall pick after a 31-win season, selected Steven Stamkos first overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract on July 29, 2008. He made his NHL debut on October 4, 2008, in Prague against the New York Rangers. Stamkos recorded his first point, an assist, in his eighth game before scoring his first NHL goal against Ryan Miller of the Buffalo Sabres shortly after. He finished his rookie season with 23 goals and 23 assists for 46 points in 79 games. His season was highlighted by his first career hat-trick on February 17, 2009, which made him the first Lightning rookie to achieve the feat and the second-youngest player in NHL history to record a natural hat-trick.

A dedicated off-season training regimen with former NHL player Gary Roberts in the summer of 2009 propelled Stamkos to a breakout sophomore campaign. He played the bulk of the 2009-10 season on the first line with Martin St. Louis and Steve Downie. That season, Stamkos erupted for 51 goals, tying Sidney Crosby for the NHL lead and earning his first Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy. He added 44 assists for 95 total points, finishing fifth in league scoring, and his 51 goals made him the third-youngest player in NHL history to reach the 50-goal plateau. The following season, 2010-11, Stamkos continued his elite scoring pace by netting 45 goals and 46 assists for 91 points while playing in all 82 games. He made his first NHL All-Star Game appearance and helped lead the Lightning to the Eastern Conference Final, where they fell to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Boston Bruins in seven games after Stamkos played through a shoulder injury sustained in the first round.

The 2011-12 season is one of Stamkos's most remarkable individual performances, beginning with his re-signing with Tampa Bay on a five-year, $37.5 million contract on July 19, 2011, and his appointment as an alternate captain. He then authored a 60-goal season, becoming the first and only player to score 60 in the 2010s decade and the 20th player in NHL history to reach the milestone, which earned him his second Rocket Richard Trophy. Stamkos finished second in league scoring with 97 points, earning runner-up status for the Art Ross Trophy, and he was also a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP and the Ted Lindsay Award, though the Lightning missed the playoffs that season. His tenure with Tampa Bay was defined by consistent excellence and leadership. He captained the Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021. The team also made appearances in the Stanley Cup Final in 2015 and 2022 under his leadership. Stamkos departed Tampa Bay as the franchise's all-time leader in goals and points. He holds the Lightning franchise record for most goals and points scored.

Move to the Nashville Predators

In the 2024 off-season, Steven Stamkos began a new chapter in his storied career by signing with the Nashville Predators. This was a significant shift after 16 seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Upon joining the Predators, Stamkos was named an alternate captain. His offensive instincts remained sharp, as evidenced by a four-goal performance against the St. Louis Blues that season.

As of the 2026-27 season, the 36-year-old centre remains a productive contributor for Nashville. He recorded three assists and six points across his first four games early in that campaign. While his ice time and role have naturally evolved, Stamkos continues to be a key offensive weapon and a respected voice for the Predators. His experience and proven track record in high-pressure situations provide valuable guidance to the team. Stamkos's transition to a new city and team has been closely watched, affirming his status as one of the game's most accomplished stars.

International Play

Steven Stamkos has represented Canada on multiple occasions at the international level. He contributed to the nation's success with a gold medal performance at the IIHF World U20 Championship (World Junior Championship). This early success helped solidify his status as a top prospect ahead of the 2008 NHL Draft. Stamkos has also been selected to compete for Team Canada at the senior men's level. Playing for his country has been a point of pride for Stamkos, adding to his extensive hockey resume beyond his NHL accomplishments.

Career Statistics and Records

Steven Stamkos's career statistics reflect his longevity and consistent excellence as a premier scorer. He holds the Lightning franchise record for most goals and points scored. His single-season peak came in 2011-12 when he scored 60 goals, a mark that led the NHL that year. He has scored the most goals of any player born in the 1990s.

Stamkos's statistical achievements are further highlighted by his performance in specific situations and his durability. In his 60-goal season, a remarkable 48 of those tallies came at even strength. He has also been a clutch performer, tying for the league lead in game-winning goals during the 2011-12 campaign. His career is marked by remarkable consistency and health during his prime. He played in all 82 games for three consecutive seasons from 2009-10 through 2011-12.

Beyond the raw numbers, Stamkos's goal-scoring prowess is characterized by a powerful and quick release on his shot. This shot was often unleashed from the left circle on the power play, which became a signature element of his game. These statistical milestones and records collectively paint the picture of an elite player. His name is etched among the greats in NHL history for his scoring touch and offensive production over a long and distinguished career.

Honours and Awards

Throughout his illustrious career, Steven Stamkos has accumulated a significant collection of individual and team honours. These highlight his impact on the sport over nearly two decades at the professional level. His trophy case includes the NHL's most prestigious goal-scoring award. He has also received recognition for his leadership and all-star calibre play. These confirm his status as one of the elite players of his era.

Stamkos's major individual awards and recognitions are numerous. He is a two-time Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner as the NHL's leading goal-scorer in 2010 and 2012. He is a two-time NHL second team All-Star in 2011 and 2012. He has been named to seven NHL All-Star Games. He won the Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2023. He was also a Hart Memorial Trophy finalist in 2012 and a two-time Ted Lindsay Award finalist in 2011 and 2012.

• Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy (2010, 2012), Awarded to the NHL's leading goal-scorer.
• Mark Messier Leadership Award (2023), Recognizes leadership and charitable contributions.
• NHL Second All-Star Team (2011, 2012), Named one of the top two forwards in the league.
• Hart Memorial Trophy Finalist (2012), Finished second in voting for league MVP.
• Ted Lindsay Award Finalist (2011, 2012), Finished second in voting for most outstanding player as judged by NHLPA members.
• Art Ross Trophy Runner-up (2012, 2013), Finished second in league scoring.

His junior hockey achievements were also prolific, foreshadowing his NHL success. With the Sarnia Sting of the OHL, he won the Bobby Smith Trophy as the league's top scholastic player in 2007. He was named to the OHL Second All-Rookie Team that same year. He was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team in 2008. His final junior season also earned him a spot on the CHL First All-Star Team and the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award. At the team level, his legacy is defined by leading the Tampa Bay Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.

Playing Style and Legacy

Steven Stamkos is renowned for his elite offensive toolkit. It is centred around one of the most feared shots in modern hockey, a powerful, quick-release one-timer often deployed from the left face-off circle on the power play. This shot, combined with his accurate wrist shot and snap shot, made him a constant threat from anywhere in the offensive zone. Beyond his shooting, Stamkos possessed excellent skating speed and a high hockey IQ, allowing him to find open seams in defensive coverage. His dedication to off-ice training, particularly his famed workouts with Gary Roberts, added significant strength and endurance. He credited this training for giving him an extra jump during his breakout years.

Stamkos's legacy is built on individual brilliance, franchise-altering leadership, and team success, making him the greatest goal-scorer in Tampa Bay Lightning history as the holder of the franchise records for goals and points. His 60-goal season in 2011-12 remains a historic benchmark, achieved during an era of lower scoring and heightened parity, and as captain, he guided the Lightning through a period of sustained excellence that culminated in two Stanley Cup championships, transforming the franchise's identity. His leadership was formally recognized with the Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2023, and for Canadian hockey fans, Stamkos represents a homegrown superstar who excelled at every level, from the OHL to the NHL and internationally. His career continues with the Nashville Predators, where he adds to his all-time goal total and provides a veteran presence, ensuring his legacy as one of the most productive and respected players of his generation continues to grow with each season he plays.

Questions about Steven Stamkos

How many Stanley Cups did Steven Stamkos win?

Steven Stamkos won the Stanley Cup twice, both with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He captained the team to back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021. The Lightning also reached the Stanley Cup Final under his leadership in 2015 and 2022, but did not win the championship in those years. His tenure as captain was marked by significant team success, including these four deep playoff runs. This period solidified his legacy as a franchise leader for Tampa Bay.

What team does Steven Stamkos play for now?

Steven Stamkos currently plays for the Nashville Predators. He joined the Predators prior to the 2024 25 season after spending his first 16 NHL seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning. In Nashville, he serves as an alternate captain. As of the 2026 27 season, the 36 year old forward continues to contribute offensively for the Predators in the National Hockey League.

How many goals has Steven Stamkos scored in his NHL career?

Steven Stamkos has scored over 627 goals in his NHL career. This total places him alone in 17th place on the NHL's all time goals list. The vast majority of these goals were scored during his tenure with the Tampa Bay Lightning, for whom he is the franchise's all time leading goal scorer. His career goal scoring prowess includes two 50 goal seasons and a 60 goal campaign, highlighting his status as one of the premier snipers of his generation.

Did Steven Stamkos ever win the Rocket Richard Trophy?

Yes, Steven Stamkos is a two time Maurice Rocket Richard Trophy winner as the NHL's leading goal scorer. He first won it in the 2009 10 season, scoring 51 goals to tie Sidney Crosby for the lead. He won it again in the 2011 12 season with a remarkable 60 goal campaign. He was the runner up for the award three other times in 2011, 2013, and 2015. These achievements show his consistent elite scoring ability throughout his career.

What is Steven Stamkos's connection to Gary Roberts?

Steven Stamkos's connection to Gary Roberts is rooted in off season training and mentorship. After Roberts's final NHL season as Stamkos's teammate in Tampa Bay in 2008 09, he oversaw Stamkos's intensive summer workout regimen. This training took place at Roberts's home gym north of Toronto, near Stamkos's family home. Stamkos credited this work with adding significant strength and endurance, which he said gave him an extra jump and directly contributed to his 51 goal breakout season in 2009 10. He continued to train with Roberts during subsequent off seasons, including the 2012 NHL lockout.

Sources and further reading

• Steven Stamkos (Wikipedia)
• Players Only: Steven Stamkos (nhl.com)

Checked by the Garbutt Disposal desk. Last updated 2026-10-27.