Stamkos Scores Four Goals as Predators Defeat Blues 7-2

In a standout performance, Steven Stamkos scored four goals, leading the Nashville Predators to a decisive 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues on December 14, 2023. This remarkable display of scoring came at a crucial time for the Predators, who have seen a resurgence in form following a sluggish start to the season. Over the past eight games, the team has posted an impressive record of 6-2, coinciding with Stamkos’ own hot streak of eight goals in that same span.

Stamkos, now 35 years old, opened the scoring just over eight minutes into the first period, converting his own rebound during a 2-on-1 break. He quickly doubled the lead with a second goal less than three minutes later, capitalizing on a rebound after Jordan Binnington saved a shot from Roman Josi. His third goal came mid-way through the second period, completing his hat trick with a shot from the high slot that took a deflection off Blues defenseman Justin Faulk. Stamkos sealed his four-goal night just three minutes later, backhanding a deflected shot past Binnington.

This four-goal game marks the second of Stamkos’ 18-year career, with his previous occurrence happening on December 14, 2023, during his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He has now joined an exclusive group as just the fourth player in Predators history to score four goals in a single game, alongside notable names such as Filip Forsberg and Rocco Grimaldi.

As he approaches a significant milestone, Stamkos is just seven goals shy of reaching 600 career goals, a feat only achieved by 21 players in NHL history. Reflecting on his scoring performance, he noted the surreal nature of approaching such a historical benchmark, stating, “It’s a little surreal, to be honest, when you look at the history of this league and how many great players there’s been.”

Despite his personal achievements, Stamkos emphasized the importance of the team’s collective success. After an offseason that did not yield the desired results and a missed playoff spot last season, the Predators are now showing signs of improvement. “It hasn’t quite worked out the way that we wanted to in terms of the success we’ve had as a team. But we’re rolling right now,” he said. “I think we’re playing some hockey that people probably expected us to play, and expected of ourselves. And we want to keep that going.”

The Predators have now improved their overall record to 12 wins, 14 losses, and 4 overtime losses, indicating a positive shift as they aim for a playoff spot in the competitive NHL landscape. With Stamkos leading the charge, the team looks poised to continue its upward trajectory as the season progresses.