“Cursed” “This hurts my eyes”: NHL fans React to Steven Stamkos’ first look in a Predators jersey after parting ways with Lightning (IMAGN)

Fans across the league got their first look at Steven Stamkos in a Nashville Predators uniform. Some fans didn’t seem happy about the unusual look. After spending more than a decade with the Tampa Bay Lightning, some fans can’t seem to get used to the idea of Stamkos in Nashville.

B/R Open Ice shared Stamkos’ first look in a Predators uniform on X (formerly Twitter).

Here’s a look at what some fans had to say about Stamkos’ new gear:

“As a Rangers fan, this hurts my eyes and he’s not even my guy. It’s like if Crosby went to the Islanders,” one fan said.

“Cursed,” another fan chimed in.

“Zero loyalty, just like Tavares,” this fan wrote.

However, not all fans seemed against the idea of Stamkos wearing Nashville’s yellow and blue colors. These fans seemed excited about the notion of Steven Stamkos wearing Predators garb. Here’s a look at their comments:

“Give him the C,” one fan tweeted.

“Gotta stitch that “A” on there. No way stammer doesn’t get named second alternate,” this fan posted on social media.

“Y’know it kind’ve looks good,” this fan weighed in.

Fans will need to wait a few more weeks to see the real Stamkos hit the ice wearing the Predators uniform.

Steven Stamkos open to playing center again

A piece in The Tennessean posed the question: What position will Steven Stamkos play in the Nashville Predators’ lineup?

The answer to that question seemingly lies with coach Andrew Brunette. According to the article, Stamkos spoke with Brunette regarding the role Stamkos would play with the Preds. While Stamkos would have plenty of input, Brunette would have the final word.

The Tennessean quoted Stamkos, saying:

“I would definitely be open to going to (center). It was a position I played for a long time.”

Stamkos added:

“Certainly comfortable in that area and I’ve taken a ton of faceoffs the past couple of years.”

At the moment, Daily Faceoff projects Stamkos playing left win with newly-signed Jonathan Marchessault on the right side, centered by Tommy Novak. Novak played 71 games last season, notching 45 points.

So, that situation raises the question: Would the Predators be better off with Stamkos at center?

Given the apparent lack of center depth, it would certainly be intriguing to see Stamkos play behind top-line center Ryan O’Reilly with Marchessault flaking him. Novak could drop to the third-line spot, giving the Predators three solid centers.

Ultimately, Brunette will need to see what fits best for his team once training camps open this fall.